First Impressions of Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount promises to revolutionize portable astrophotography. Sky-Watcher has leveraged strain wave gear technology to deliver a compact, high-torque mount. This mount aims to provide exceptional precision and power in a user-friendly package.
My quest for the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount stemmed from a need for a lightweight, yet robust, astrophotography platform. Traditional equatorial mounts often prove cumbersome for remote locations. I needed a mount capable of handling my mid-sized telescope and camera gear without sacrificing portability.
Unboxing the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount, I was immediately struck by its compact size and seemingly robust construction. The black finish gives it a sleek, professional look. The mount feels surprisingly solid, considering its stated weight of just 12.8 pounds.
Compared to my older, heavier German equatorial mount from Celestron, the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount is a revelation. Similarly, I considered the iOptron HAE29EC. However, the Sky-Watcher mount’s reported payload capacity and included features, such as the backlit latitude scale, swayed my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of a strain wave mount in such a portable form factor. However, I remained skeptical about its ability to deliver the advertised payload capacity and tracking accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount took place at a dark sky site in the Mojave Desert. I paired the mount with a William Optics RedCat 51 telescope and a ZWO ASI533MC Pro camera. The location offered clear skies and minimal light pollution.
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount performed admirably despite a slight breeze. The EQ tracking mode was surprisingly accurate after a simple polar alignment using the built-in polar scope. I did notice some slight vibrations initially, but engaging the RA power-off braking function mitigated this issue.
Setup was straightforward, though I did need to consult the manual to understand the RA and DEC home position functions. The red backlit latitude display proved invaluable for setting the correct latitude in the dark. There were no immediate major issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from freezing to moderately warm. It handles temperature changes well with no degradation in tracking performance.
The mount exhibits minimal signs of wear and tear despite being transported frequently. The durable carry case with its custom-cut foam insert offers excellent protection during travel. The only maintenance required has been occasionally wiping down the exterior to remove dust.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional gear-driven mounts, the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount offers superior portability and ease of use. It greatly enhances my ability to capture high-quality astrophotography images in remote locations. I still reach for my heavier mount for observatory imaging.
Breaking Down the Features of Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount
Specifications
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount boasts a payload capacity of 33 pounds without the optional counterweight. It has a capacity of 55 pounds with the counterweight kit. The mount itself weighs 12.8 pounds.
It features both EQ and AZ tracking modes and has RA and Dec home positions. The saddle is a D/V hybrid type. It has a latitude range of 0 to 90 degrees, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability, RA power-off braking, and requires 12v 2a power (not included). These specifications are ideal for achieving great astrophotography results with less weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount performs its primary function of accurately tracking celestial objects exceptionally well. The strain wave gears provide smooth, backlash-free movement. I have achieved excellent guiding performance with my autoguider.
Its strengths include its portability, accurate tracking, and easy setup. A weakness is the need for an external 12V power source. It also has a fairly high price.
It definitely meets my expectations for a portable astrophotography mount. The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount performs as advertised. It is a fantastic product.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount is constructed from high-quality materials, giving it a solid and durable feel. Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up. The mount is comfortable to use.
The interface is relatively intuitive, although some features require consulting the manual initially. The red backlit latitude scale and bubble level enhance usability in dark conditions. The user interface is well designed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount appears to be built to last. The strain wave gears are sealed and require minimal maintenance. Periodic cleaning is all that is generally needed.
Based on its robust construction and quality components, I expect the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount to provide many years of reliable service. This shows a durable mount.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount does not include a tripod or power supply. The optional counterweight kit increases the payload capacity. The mount is compatible with standard Vixen-style and Losmandy-style dovetail bars.
Third-party accessories, such as guide scopes and autoguiders, can easily be attached. This is great for adding different things to the mount. The mount’s compatibility with standard dovetail bars makes it versatile.
Pros and Cons of Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount
Pros
- Exceptional portability: Lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for travel.
- Accurate tracking: Strain wave gears provide smooth, backlash-free movement for precise tracking.
- High payload capacity: Handles mid-sized telescopes and camera gear with ease (up to 33 lbs).
- Easy setup: Simple polar alignment and intuitive interface make it user-friendly.
- Durable construction: High-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Relatively expensive: The price point may be prohibitive for some amateur astronomers.
- Requires external power: 12V power supply not included.
Who Should Buy Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount?
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount is perfect for astrophotographers who value portability and ease of use. It is ideal for those who frequently travel to dark sky locations. Experienced astrophotographers needing a compact, high-performance mount for remote imaging will also find it ideal.
Beginners who are intimidated by traditional equatorial mounts might find the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount a good starting point. Those who primarily observe visually or require a mount for very large telescopes should skip this product. Also those on a tight budget should avoid this product.
A must-have accessory is a reliable 12V power supply or battery pack. The optional counterweight kit is highly recommended for heavier telescope setups.
Conclusion on Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount
The Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount is an impressive piece of engineering that delivers on its promise of portability and performance. It is a game-changer for astrophotographers seeking a lightweight, accurate tracking platform. The mount’s features, such as the backlit latitude scale and RA power-off braking, further enhance its usability.
The price is undoubtedly a significant investment, but the value proposition is strong for those who prioritize portability and performance. The build quality and innovative design justify the cost. It is worth every penny.
I would highly recommend the Sky Watcher Wave 150i Strainwave Mount to any astrophotographer looking to enhance their imaging capabilities in the field. Invest in your astrophotography journey today.