Automatically inputs GPS data: time, date, and location Compatible with all Sky-Watcher SynScan hand controllers Accelerates mount alignment and setup Increases GoTo pointing accuracy Simple plug-and-play operation Description FAQ Specifications In the Box Downloads Warranty Sky-Watcher SynScan GPS Module The Sky-Watcher SynScan GPS Module eliminates the most tedious part of setting up your GoTo mount by automatically feeding precise time, date, and location data directly to your SynScan hand controller. This simple, plug-in accessory ensures your mount's alignment is based on accurate global positioning data, leading to significantly more accurate GoTo slews and tracking right from the start of your session. Automated Initialization for Any SynScan Mount Setting up a computerized mount requires entering your precise latitude, longitude, date, and local time. The SynScan GPS Module automates this entire process. Once connected, it acquires a satellite lock and populates all required fields on the hand controller, saving you valuable field time and removing the risk of manual entry errors that can compromise pointing accuracy. Improved GoTo Accuracy from the First Star A GoTo system's accuracy is fundamentally dependent on the quality of its initial alignment data. By providing real-time, satellite-derived location and time information, the SynScan GPS Module gives your mount a more precise foundation for its sky model. This translates directly to more accurate pointing, placing objects closer to the center of your eyepiece or camera sensor on the first slew. Time Savings: Skips the need to check your watch or phone and manually input multiple data points before you can begin alignment. Error Reduction: Eliminates typos in coordinates or mistakes with time zones and daylight saving settings that are common sources of alignment failure. Travel Ready: For observers who travel to different dark sky sites, the module makes setup effortless—just plug it in, and your new location is automatically detected. Universal Plug-and-Play Compatibility The SynScan GPS Module is engineered for seamless integration with the entire ecosystem of Sky-Watcher GoTo mounts. It connects to the dedicated port on any mount equipped with a SynScan hand controller, from the portable Star Adventurer GTi to the observatory-class EQ8-R Pro. There is no software to install or complex configuration required; the hand controller automatically recognizes the module upon connection. How does the SynScan GPS Module improve my alignment on an EQ6-R Pro? The SynScan GPS Module automates the first, most critical step of your alignment. Instead of you manually entering the date, time, latitude, and longitude into the SynScan hand controller for your EQ6-R Pro, the module does it for you with high precision. This removes any chance of human error and provides the mount with a more accurate starting point, resulting in better initial GoTo slews. I travel to different imaging sites with my HEQ5. Is the SynScan GPS Module worth it? Absolutely. For a traveling astrophotographer, the SynScan GPS Module is a significant time-saver. Each time you set up your HEQ5 at a new location, the module will automatically detect the new coordinates and current time. You won't have to look up the latitude and longitude for each new site, making your setup process faster and more consistent every time. Is the SynScan GPS Module compatible with my AZ-GTi mount? Yes, the SynScan GPS Module is compatible with any Sky-Watcher mount that uses a SynScan hand controller, including the AZ-GTi. It will provide the same automatic time and location data to streamline your setup. Does the SynScan GPS Module require batteries or an external power source? No, the module draws a small amount of power directly from the mount through the hand controller port. It does not require any separate batteries or power cables. How long does it take for the SynScan GPS Module to acquire a satellite signal? From a cold start, it typically takes a minute or two to lock onto the GPS satellite network. Subsequent uses are often faster. A clear view of the open sky is required for reliable signal acquisition. Can I use the SynScan GPS Module with the SynScan Pro App instead of the hand controller? The SynScan GPS Module connects physically to the hand controller port on the mount. If you are controlling your mount via Wi-Fi with the SynScan Pro App on your phone, the app will use your phone's internal GPS to get location and time data, making the external GPS module redundant in that specific scenario. Compatibility All Sky-Watcher mounts using a SynScan hand controller Function Provides GPS data (time, date, location) to hand controller Interface Connects to SynScan hand controller port Power Source Powered by mount (no external power required) SynScan GPS Module × 1 Download SynScan V5 Hand Control Manual Download SynScan Pro App Download Sky-Watcher Software Sky-Watcher 2-Year Warranty
