Hey everyone, I’m in need of help. I’m a long time landscape photographer on a hiatus. I’ve been looking into astrophotography and it is getting me really excited to get back at it while learning a new skill and enjoying a new aspect of photography. I’ve always enjoyed seeing the Milky Way and viewing the beautiful photos of nebula.

I would like some help selecting a star tracker. I have a Canon 5D Mk3, TSE 24mm f/3.5L, 70-300mm f/4-5.6L, and a 300mm f/2.8L. With the 300mm mounted to the camera it weighs 9lb-1.6oz. I’ve got what seems like to me a pretty decent view from the roof of my house for photographing nebulas but also have a great spot less than a 10min walk from my house to get the Milky Way over the mountains.

I’m thinking of getting either the Sky-Watcher EQM-35 or the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi. I like the idea of having a portable battery powered star tracker (GTi) but it’s payload is 11lbs and my large lens with camera is 9lb-1.6oz which is pretty close to its max. Would that be okay or is it too heavy to work well? The EQM-35 has a 22lb payload but is far less portable, though I suppose I could hook it up to a portable lithium battery pack. Overall I think I would prefer the GTi for its portability and cheaper price but am worried about being so close to the weight capacity.

Whatever suggestions you all provide please keep these constraints in mind. I use Linux and absolutely will not install any apps on my phone for functionality unless they are FOSS with no trackers. I have found that the program KStars can control cameras and mounts via the protocol INDI as well as Sky-Watcher has a SynScan hand controller accessory.

I appreciate any help given and am looking to go to a local Star Party to meet people but sadly am busy during the next one. Thanks!