Vixen Polarie Star Tracker Camera Mount User Manual

1. Introduction

The Vixen Polarie Star Tracker is a unique photographic accessory designed for capturing stunning night sky images with perfectly tracked stars. It simplifies astrophotography, allowing users to take clear, sharp photos of the starry sky even with long exposure times. The Polarie counteracts Earth's rotation, preventing star trails.

This device features a multi-function dial for various tracking modes (sky and landscape, moon, sun, and stars), an altimeter for quick alignment, a USB port for external power, and a built-in compass for easy celestial direction finding. An optional polar scope is available for precise polar alignment, essential for longer exposures and telephoto lenses.

The Polarie is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and easy setup without extensive prior knowledge.

Image 1.1: The Vixen Polarie Star Tracker enables capturing detailed images of the Milky Way and other celestial objects.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Verify that all parts are present and undamaged. Refer to the packing list for a complete inventory.

2.2 Powering the Device

The Polarie can be powered by two AA alkaline batteries or via an external USB power source.

• Battery Installation: Open the battery compartment and insert two AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
• External Power: Connect a USB cable from a power bank or suitable USB power adapter to the Polarie's USB port.

Image 2.1: The Polarie can be powered by two AA batteries or an external USB source for extended operation.

2.3 Mounting the Camera

Attach your camera to the Polarie using a ball head adapter (not included). Ensure the camera and lens combination does not exceed the maximum recommended weight of 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs).

1. Securely mount the Polarie onto a sturdy tripod.
2. Attach a ball head (sold separately) to the Polarie's mounting screw.
3. Mount your camera onto the ball head.
4. Ensure all connections are tight and stable.

Image 2.2: The compact Vixen Polarie, weighing approximately 740g (without batteries), with a camera mounted, showing its dimensions.

2.4 Polar Alignment (Rough)

For basic astrophotography, a rough polar alignment is sufficient. The Polarie includes a built-in compass and altimeter for quick orientation.

1. Use the built-in compass to orient the Polarie towards true North (or South in the Southern Hemisphere).
2. Adjust the tilt of your tripod head or the Polarie itself to match your local latitude, using the altimeter.
3. For more precise alignment, especially for longer exposures or telephoto lenses, an optional polar scope is recommended.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Selecting Tracking Modes

The Polarie features a multi-function dial to select different tracking modes:

• Star Tracking Mode (Sidereal Rate): For photographing stars, nebulae, and galaxies. The Polarie tracks at the Earth's rotational speed to keep stars as pinpoints.
• Half-Speed Tracking Mode (1/2 Sidereal Rate): Ideal for nightscapes where you want both the foreground landscape and the stars to appear sharp. This mode reduces star trailing while still allowing for longer exposures.
• Moon Tracking Mode: For lunar photography.
• Sun Tracking Mode: For solar photography (requires appropriate solar filters on your camera lens).
• OFF: Turns off tracking.

Image 3.1: The Polarie's multi-function dial allows selection between Star, Half-Speed, Moon, and Sun tracking modes.

3.2 Camera Settings for Astrophotography

Optimal camera settings will vary based on your lens, light pollution, and desired results. Here are general guidelines:

• Exposure Control: Manual (M) mode is recommended.
• ISO: Start with ISO 800-1600 and adjust as needed. The Polarie supports a wide ISO range (100-12800).
• Aperture: Use the widest aperture your lens allows (e.g., f/2.8, f/4).
• Shutter Speed: With the Polarie tracking, you can use longer shutter speeds than without. Experiment with 30 seconds to several minutes depending on your focal length and tracking precision.
• Focus: Manually focus to infinity. Use Live View and zoom in on a bright star for precise focusing.
• Image Stabilization: Disable in-camera or in-lens image stabilization when mounted on a tripod and tracker.
• File Format: Shoot in RAW for maximum post-processing flexibility. JPEG is also supported.

Image 3.2: The Polarie allows for beautiful nightscape photography, keeping stars sharp while integrating foreground elements.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

Keep the Polarie clean and free from dust and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

4.2 Storage

When not in use, store the Polarie in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for extended periods to prevent leakage.

4.3 Battery Replacement

Replace AA batteries when the power indicator shows low battery or when the device stops functioning correctly. Always use fresh batteries of the same type.

5. Troubleshooting

6. Specifications

Image 6.1: The compact design of the Vixen Polarie, with a height of approximately 9 cm (3.8 inches), making it highly portable.

7. Warranty Information

Vixen products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Vixen website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8. Customer Support

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your Vixen Polarie Star Tracker, please contact Vixen customer support. You can typically find contact information on the official Vixen website or in the documentation provided with your product.

• Online Resources: Visit the official Vixen website for FAQs, product manuals, and support articles.
• Contact Form/Email: Use the contact form or email address provided on the Vixen website for direct assistance.
• Phone Support: Check the Vixen website for regional phone support numbers.