Help & Resources
Asterra Support Center
Find answers, troubleshoot issues, and get the most out of your Asterra products.
Asterra Z+ Firmware Update
Enhanced screen brightness when using Solar speed for seamless daytime shooting.
Video Tutorials
Step-by-step guides to help you get the most out of your Asterra device.
Quick Blind Alignment Tutorial
Learn how to quickly align your Asterra device using the blind alignment method.
Laser Pointer Alignment Tutorial
Step-by-step guide to aligning your device using the laser pointer method.
Single-Star Polar Alignment Tutorial with Planit Pro
Master polar alignment using Planit Pro app with your Asterra device.
Magnetometer Calibration Tutorial
Learn how to calibrate the built-in magnetometer for accurate orientation on your Asterra device.
Zero Drift Calibration Tutorial
Step-by-step guide to zero drift calibration for optimal tracking stability with your Asterra device.
Asterra Z+ Exposure Time Reference
Compare theoretical exposure times across focal lengths and alignment methods.
| Calibration MethodFocal Length | For Magnetic Compass (Rough Alignment)* | For Laser Pointer (Rough Alignment) | For Single-Star (Precise Alignment) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14mm | 85s | 10min | 64min |
| 16mm | 75s | 9min | 56min |
| 20mm | 60s | 7min | 45min |
| 24mm | 50s | 6min | 38min |
| 28mm | 45s | 5min | 32min |
| 35mm | 35s | 240s (4min) | 26min |
| 50mm | 25s | 170s (2min 50s) | 18min |
| 60mm | 20s | 140s (2min 20s) | 15min |
| 85mm | Not Recommended | 100s (1min 40s) | 11min |
| 100mm | Not Recommended | 85s (1min 25s) | 9min |
| 135mm | Not Recommended | 60s (1min) | 7min |
| 150mm | Not Recommended | 55s | 6min |
| 200mm | Not Recommended | 40s | 270s (4min 30s) |
| 250mm | Not Recommended | 35s | 215s (3min 35s) |
| 300mm | Not Recommended | 30s | 180s (3min) |
| 400mm | Not Recommended | 20s | 135s (2min 15s) |
| 500mm | Not Recommended | Not Recommended | 110s (1min 50s) |
| 600mm | Not Recommended | Not Recommended | 90s (1min 30s) |
*For Magnetic Compass (Rough Alignment): Suitable for environments with low magnetic interference and after proper calibration.
The above data are theoretical ideal exposure reference values under the mount’s theoretical tracking precision.
Note: In actual astrophotography, the entire setup (lens, camera, tripod, mount, etc.) is susceptible to factors such as wind, connection stability, center-of-gravity balance, latitude and level adjustment, and tripod rigidity. The actual maximum safe exposure time may be lower than the values in the table. Please adjust according to the on-site environment. Data is for reference only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions.
ASTERRA-Z is designed as a portable and easy-to-use star tracker for landscape astrophotography. Its primary goal is fast deployment and high portability, with support for wide-field imaging. It is not specifically designed for deep-sky astrophotography.
Still need help?
Our support team is available Monday through Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM PST. We typically respond within 24 hours.