I have been using the Nomad tracker as well, one thing you may want to remind the viewer is you may want to verify and calibrate the laser pointer before you head out, I have friends received the laser pointer that's way off center, one guy didn't realized that and came home with some pretty horrible picture, so it's worth to spend 30 second at home to check the laser before you head out.
Just received the Nomad with V and Z brackets. At the very beginning of your video you show the Nomad mounted to the Z plate at the shoe of the tracker. How did you do that? I'm not seeing anything anywhere about mounting this way. I like it...just not sure how you did it. Thanks in advance.
Good day! Thank you for the informative video! I have a question- which kit to buy in order to start shooting Milky Way panoramas? I have a tripod, a camera and a wide angle lens already.
@baginatora Hi. So this is the list of what I use. (I've checked the MSM site for the best options in terms of 'bundles' ) At MINIMUM you need #1 & #2. I'd HIGHLY recommend using #3 between the Nomad and the ballhead as it makes lining up your shot so much easier and puts less stress on the rotator. #3 is great for rotating the camera to take each section of a panorama. Lastly, if you're in a climate when your lenses fog up because of Dew then the heater is a must. Hope this helps. #1 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339 #2 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339 #3 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339 #4 360° Arca Swiss Panoramic Panning base www.moveshootmove.com/products/360-panoramic-panning-base?aff=339 #5 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339
Thanks for the review. I'm quite new to astrophotography, never used any trackers. I was waiting for this tracker to finally become available, and now thinking on getting it as a Christmas gift for myself. But I can't figure out whether I need a laser pointer, or a scope, or both, and all other accessories...
The minimum basic setup you need to get started is: (Starting from the ground up) Tripod. Ball head 1. MSM Nomade. Laser Pointer. Ball head 2. Camera. MSM do a "Starter Kit (NOMAD+Pointer+Ball Head)" If you don't have any ball heads yet, it might be a good idea to buy that kit and a 2nd ball head. If you're starting off with long exposure wide field milky way photos, the laser pointer is perfectly fine. As for other accessories, I'd highly recommend you get a lens warmer. On dewy nights if your lens fogs over it'll ruin your shots.
@@StargazerMan I have a (very basic) tripod with ball head, and a second probably even more basic ball head, so theoretically I am all set. Practically don't know whether those are suitable, but I can change them. I did some photography just from tripod even in winter. Got fog in lens when returning home, but not during shooting. But lens warmer may be a good idea anyway, thanks.
Hi there, Thanks very much for this informative video. As a result of this video I purchased the MSM Nomade, but I have a question. After receiving it I see there is no way to mount/attach the rotator/tracker onto the Z mount. How have you done so (as shown in your video)? I would like to keep the kit to a minimum, ie: one ball head instead of two as you’ve shown in your video. Shall look forward to your reply. Best, Sherome
Hi Sherome, glad you found the video informative enough to decide to purchase the tracker. To attach it to the V or Z plates you'll need the bottom part of a quick release clamp. Like this one: www.3leggedthing.com/eu/lever-clamp-config.html?fbclid=IwAR20govZPXD8W34gdD1tiIj34eSqYQkRw16xILVjMCvSqsJxirZ1Sq1d1ts This will allow you to not have a 2nd ball head. Clear skies!
I guess the laser pointer is more handy when doing polar alignment in the northern hemisphere - lining it up with polaris. Would the laser pointer be much use at all in the southern hemisphere?
You're right, the laser pointer is really only useful for Northern hemisphere. Southern hemisphere you'd need to use a compass and a way to set your latitude. I've a friend based in Australia and he uses this method and for wide field long exposure shots it works fine.
Nice gear, great to see a new tracker on the market. I was about to ask about the longer focal length, but I see you already got this question. Really interested how well it could handle Samyang 135mm
Thanks. I'm waiting on the polar scope and clear skies to get another opportunity to test with longer focal lengths. Hit that subscribe and notifications bell as the kids say.
@@StargazerManDoes the move shoot and move really move all the time like a expensive star tracker. I was thinking that maybe it works like this: First you take a photo, then the tracker moves little bit and you take another photo.
Yes they are honest to goodness star trackers! The first unit called Move Shoot Move - Rotator This has 2 modes: Timelapse (where it takes a shot then moves the camera then takes another shot and so on) The other mode is constant tracking. On the new model, the 'Nomad' (which I am reviewing here) Has a single function - star tracking. Hope this clears it up for you!
Great video! I haven’t seen anything on this Nomad. Let me ask you, how much better does this unit “max” payload in comparison to the MSM basic tracker ? The black “basic” tracker they first came out with has a payload of 6.4 pounds and this one has only another .5 pounds of capacity, if I am understanding you correctly? Cheers!
Thanks. Yes that's correct. It breaks down like this: Weight - MSM: 1.01 lbs (450g) / Nomade: 0.95-pound (430g) Max Payload - MSM: 6.6Lbs (3Kg) / Nomade: 7.7-pound (3.5kg) So that’s a 20g reduction in weight with the Nomade model (it’s also smaller) with a .5Kg increase in payload capacity. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching, if you haven't already please subscribe as this helps the channel grow. Clear skies! Frank.
I find it the easiest to set up of all trackers I've ever used. My main camera is Canon 7D with a 12mm Wide Field lens. (For those expansive Milky Way shots)
I tested primarily for wide field shots however I did some tests with my 300mm lens and with just laser pointer alignment got up to 10 seconds before trailing. Bearing in mind that it was just a quick test I was actually impressed that I could get pretty spot on polar alignment by eyeballing will a laser (if it's giving 10 seconds at 300mm then there will be zero worries at 12mm which is what I normally use). I am waiting on the polar scope and will be doing another video test for longer lenses and weights as soon as they arrive / have clear skies. MSM say they have a counterweight system but I've yet to see it advertised. From MSM. Improved load capacity. - The hardware has been built to withstand twice the amount of torque as the MSM Rotator. - Where the MSM Rotator was only designed for wide-angle Astro-landscape, the NOMADE has been designed with wide-field deep-sky use in mind. - Availability of an optional counterweight system for more experienced users to go even deeper.
Great review Frank. Looks like a nice unit. We can't import or use laser pointers over 1mw without a permit here in Oz. I am still using my 12 year old Polarie.
Thanks John! I never knew that about the laser restriction in OZ. Seems excessive seeing as it's so... vast. You are getting incredible results with the Polarie! I find using the laser pointer just makes things super quick to set up
Here in the UK, you can use the msm laser pointer with it's hotshoe attachment in the hotshoe of the Polarie. It vastly improves the versatility of the Polarie over it's tiny 'peephole' polar alignment procedure. Polarie has a magnetic polarscope accessory but I have often found it to be even more expensive than the msm rotator on its own !!! @@StargazerMan
@christopherdean2576 Interesting! It's great to be able to use equipment across gear. I've tried a few other trackers and absolutely hate the 'peephole' or 'tube' polar alignment. I have to wear special observing glasses due to night myopia (which I didn't know I had, I've another video on that) and even still, I find it difficult and physically awkward. The laser pointer works a treat!
Great informative video! I have been looking at the tracker for a little while now but unsure whether I can use the laser pointer in the UK and if not what’s the best alternative.
Thanks! I don't know why you wouldn't be able to use a laser point in the UK. As far as I know (please check yourself) they are not illegal to own or use there. Maliciously using them like pointing them on a moving vehicle is. There are some countries in Europe that have either outright banned (Switzerland) or have strict restrictions on them. I usually check the government websites if the places I go to the be sure before using them. Other than the laser pointer (which is super super convenient for polar alignment on the Nomad) you can use a polar scope which is a small scope that attaches to the side of the unit that you align to Polaris. This actually give more precise alignment and is needed if you are doing anything other than wide field shots. Clear skies!
Hi Bartłomiej! They are both in the same range yes including weight and load capacity. I have not had the chance to use the SAM to compare but you've made me think I defiantly should do this so it's now on my list. As soon as I get the SAM I'll do a review video and compare.
Hey! Sorry for the late reply! I haven't used the Sky Watcher Adventurer Mini - I have reached out to SW to see if they are willing to loan me one to test. Should they, I'll make a video!
To attach it to the V or Z plates you'll need the bottom part of a quick release clamp. Like this one: www.3leggedthing.com/eu/lever-clamp-config.html?fbclid=IwAR20govZPXD8W34gdD1tiIj34eSqYQkRw16xILVjMCvSqsJxirZ1Sq1d1ts
If I want to do a timelapse of milky way, will nomade support it? I understand it doesn't have the daytime timelapse function. however if I want to take a shot of milkyway at 30 sec exposure and follow the rotation of MW through the night...will nomade do the job? Please advice.
If you are using the Nomad, you'll need to attach it to the Z/V mount using either a ball head with an Arco Swiss type clamp like this: www.moveshootmove.com/cdn/shop/products/DSC4391_720x.jpg?v=1628667953 or a wedge that allows for more precise alignment. www.moveshootmove.com/cdn/shop/products/DSC4391_720x.jpg?v=1628667953
I've used a LOT of different trackers over the years and at least for me, it's the best choice. They have great customer service as well and a good Facebook user group where you can get lots of tips and help as well. BTW- They are still offering 10% off so it's a good time to grab one with the link: www.moveshootmove.com/collections/move-shoot-move-rotator/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339
Hope this helps. Use one of these links and the Discount Code ''STARGAZERMAN'' for 5% off 1. 👉 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339 2. 👉 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339 3. 👉 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339 4. 👉 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339
Hey! Here you go... 🎁 5% off - Use this link and the Discount Code ''STARGAZERMAN'' 🌏 Worldwide Shipping 1. 👉 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339 2. 👉 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339 3. 👉 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339 4. 👉 360° Arca Swiss Panoramic Panning base www.moveshootmove.com/products/360-panoramic-panning-base?aff=339 5. 👉 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339
I have been using the Nomad tracker as well, one thing you may want to remind the viewer is you may want to verify and calibrate the laser pointer before you head out, I have friends received the laser pointer that's way off center, one guy didn't realized that and came home with some pretty horrible picture, so it's worth to spend 30 second at home to check the laser before you head out.
Just received the Nomad with V and Z brackets. At the very beginning of your video you show the Nomad mounted to the Z plate at the shoe of the tracker. How did you do that? I'm not seeing anything anywhere about mounting this way. I like it...just not sure how you did it. Thanks in advance.
Nevermind...just saw someone asked the same question.
I really need to add some text to that part of the video! That adapter is a very important part.
Good day! Thank you for the informative video!
I have a question- which kit to buy in order to start shooting Milky Way panoramas? I have a tripod, a camera and a wide angle lens already.
@baginatora
Hi. So this is the list of what I use. (I've checked the MSM site for the best options in terms of 'bundles' )
At MINIMUM you need #1 & #2. I'd HIGHLY recommend using #3 between the Nomad and the ballhead as it makes lining up your shot so much easier and puts less stress on the rotator. #3 is great for rotating the camera to take each section of a panorama. Lastly, if you're in a climate when your lenses fog up because of Dew then the heater is a must.
Hope this helps.
#1 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer)
www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339
#2 Wedge
www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339
#3 V Mount
www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339
#4 360° Arca Swiss Panoramic Panning base
www.moveshootmove.com/products/360-panoramic-panning-base?aff=339
#5 Dew Heater
www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339
Thanks for the review. I'm quite new to astrophotography, never used any trackers. I was waiting for this tracker to finally become available, and now thinking on getting it as a Christmas gift for myself. But I can't figure out whether I need a laser pointer, or a scope, or both, and all other accessories...
The minimum basic setup you need to get started is:
(Starting from the ground up)
Tripod.
Ball head 1.
MSM Nomade.
Laser Pointer.
Ball head 2.
Camera.
MSM do a "Starter Kit (NOMAD+Pointer+Ball Head)"
If you don't have any ball heads yet, it might be a good idea to buy that kit and a 2nd ball head. If you're starting off with long exposure wide field milky way photos, the laser pointer is perfectly fine.
As for other accessories, I'd highly recommend you get a lens warmer. On dewy nights if your lens fogs over it'll ruin your shots.
@@StargazerMan I have a (very basic) tripod with ball head, and a second probably even more basic ball head, so theoretically I am all set. Practically don't know whether those are suitable, but I can change them.
I did some photography just from tripod even in winter. Got fog in lens when returning home, but not during shooting. But lens warmer may be a good idea anyway, thanks.
Hi there,
Thanks very much for this informative video. As a result of this video I purchased the MSM Nomade, but I have a question. After receiving it I see there is no way to mount/attach the rotator/tracker onto the Z mount. How have you done so (as shown in your video)? I would like to keep the kit to a minimum, ie: one ball head instead of two as you’ve shown in your video. Shall look forward to your reply.
Best,
Sherome
Hi Sherome, glad you found the video informative enough to decide to purchase the tracker. To attach it to the V or Z plates you'll need the bottom part of a quick release clamp. Like this one: www.3leggedthing.com/eu/lever-clamp-config.html?fbclid=IwAR20govZPXD8W34gdD1tiIj34eSqYQkRw16xILVjMCvSqsJxirZ1Sq1d1ts
This will allow you to not have a 2nd ball head.
Clear skies!
@@StargazerMan Thanks for that quick reply. Yes I suspected so. Thanks!
I guess the laser pointer is more handy when doing polar alignment in the northern hemisphere - lining it up with polaris. Would the laser pointer be much use at all in the southern hemisphere?
You're right, the laser pointer is really only useful for Northern hemisphere. Southern hemisphere you'd need to use a compass and a way to set your latitude. I've a friend based in Australia and he uses this method and for wide field long exposure shots it works fine.
Nice gear, great to see a new tracker on the market. I was about to ask about the longer focal length, but I see you already got this question. Really interested how well it could handle Samyang 135mm
Thanks. I'm waiting on the polar scope and clear skies to get another opportunity to test with longer focal lengths. Hit that subscribe and notifications bell as the kids say.
@@StargazerManDoes the move shoot and move really move all the time like a expensive star tracker.
I was thinking that maybe it works like this: First you take a photo, then the tracker moves little bit and you take another photo.
Yes they are honest to goodness star trackers! The first unit called Move Shoot Move - Rotator
This has 2 modes:
Timelapse (where it takes a shot then moves the camera then takes another shot and so on)
The other mode is constant tracking.
On the new model, the 'Nomad' (which I am reviewing here)
Has a single function - star tracking.
Hope this clears it up for you!
Thanks for this video. I am assuming the Polaris needs to be visible to properly align and track the stars.
Exactly. You need to point the Lazer to it and then your polar aligned.
@@StargazerMan Thanks. I was hoping there was a workaround for a cloudy day or night.
@@DR-fy7qy or for those of us in the souther hemisphere!
Great video! I haven’t seen anything on this Nomad. Let me ask you, how much better does this unit “max” payload in comparison to the MSM basic tracker ? The black “basic” tracker they first came out with has a payload of 6.4 pounds and this one has only another .5 pounds of capacity, if I am understanding you correctly? Cheers!
Thanks. Yes that's correct. It breaks down like this:
Weight - MSM: 1.01 lbs (450g) / Nomade: 0.95-pound (430g)
Max Payload - MSM: 6.6Lbs (3Kg) / Nomade: 7.7-pound (3.5kg)
So that’s a 20g reduction in weight with the Nomade model (it’s also smaller) with a .5Kg increase in payload capacity.
Hope this helps!
Thanks for watching, if you haven't already please subscribe as this helps the channel grow. Clear skies! Frank.
Is it easy to det up if you are a beginner? What camera do you use?
I find it the easiest to set up of all trackers I've ever used. My main camera is Canon 7D with a 12mm Wide Field lens. (For those expansive Milky Way shots)
Thanks for the review. In your opinion what is the longest focal length the tracker can handle? I have a full frame camera.
I tested primarily for wide field shots however I did some tests with my 300mm lens and with just laser pointer alignment got up to 10 seconds before trailing. Bearing in mind that it was just a quick test I was actually impressed that I could get pretty spot on polar alignment by eyeballing will a laser (if it's giving 10 seconds at 300mm then there will be zero worries at 12mm which is what I normally use). I am waiting on the polar scope and will be doing another video test for longer lenses and weights as soon as they arrive / have clear skies. MSM say they have a counterweight system but I've yet to see it advertised.
From MSM.
Improved load capacity.
- The hardware has been built to withstand twice the amount of torque as the MSM Rotator.
- Where the MSM Rotator was only designed for wide-angle Astro-landscape, the NOMADE has been designed with wide-field deep-sky use in mind.
- Availability of an optional counterweight system for more experienced users to go even deeper.
Great review Frank. Looks like a nice unit. We can't import or use laser pointers over 1mw without a permit here in Oz. I am still using my 12 year old Polarie.
Thanks John! I never knew that about the laser restriction in OZ. Seems excessive seeing as it's so... vast.
You are getting incredible results with the Polarie! I find using the laser pointer just makes things super quick to set up
Here in the UK, you can use the msm laser pointer with it's hotshoe attachment in the hotshoe of the Polarie. It vastly improves the versatility of the Polarie over it's tiny 'peephole' polar alignment procedure. Polarie has a magnetic polarscope accessory but I have often found it to be even more expensive than the msm rotator on its own !!! @@StargazerMan
@christopherdean2576 Interesting! It's great to be able to use equipment across gear. I've tried a few other trackers and absolutely hate the 'peephole' or 'tube' polar alignment. I have to wear special observing glasses due to night myopia (which I didn't know I had, I've another video on that) and even still, I find it difficult and physically awkward. The laser pointer works a treat!
Great informative video! I have been looking at the tracker for a little while now but unsure whether I can use the laser pointer in the UK and if not what’s the best alternative.
Thanks! I don't know why you wouldn't be able to use a laser point in the UK. As far as I know (please check yourself) they are not illegal to own or use there. Maliciously using them like pointing them on a moving vehicle is. There are some countries in Europe that have either outright banned (Switzerland) or have strict restrictions on them. I usually check the government websites if the places I go to the be sure before using them.
Other than the laser pointer (which is super super convenient for polar alignment on the Nomad) you can use a polar scope which is a small scope that attaches to the side of the unit that you align to Polaris. This actually give more precise alignment and is needed if you are doing anything other than wide field shots.
Clear skies!
isnt Sky Watcher Adventurer Mini in the same price range and weight/portability? Have you use both and have some feedback which one is better?
Hi Bartłomiej! They are both in the same range yes including weight and load capacity. I have not had the chance to use the SAM to compare but you've made me think I defiantly should do this so it's now on my list. As soon as I get the SAM I'll do a review video and compare.
Hey! Sorry for the late reply!
I haven't used the Sky Watcher Adventurer Mini - I have reached out to SW to see if they are willing to loan me one to test. Should they, I'll make a video!
How does it balance each lens without weights? Or does it self-balance up to 7 lbs?
The Nomad does not require counterweights.
How did you attach thee Nomad directly to the V plate? It has me baffled.
To attach it to the V or Z plates you'll need the bottom part of a quick release clamp. Like this one: www.3leggedthing.com/eu/lever-clamp-config.html?fbclid=IwAR20govZPXD8W34gdD1tiIj34eSqYQkRw16xILVjMCvSqsJxirZ1Sq1d1ts
If I want to do a timelapse of milky way, will nomade support it? I understand it doesn't have the daytime timelapse function. however if I want to take a shot of milkyway at 30 sec exposure and follow the rotation of MW through the night...will nomade do the job? Please advice.
If I understand you correctly (you will be taking consecutive 30 second exposures of the MW and let the rotator track) then yes.
thank you so much @@StargazerMan
How would anyone compare this to the benro Polaris? Torn between the two
I'd love to compare. I might send Benro a cheeky email and ask to review on for them :-)
Do you know if this will work for a film camera?
Yes. Astrophotography with a film camera? Awesome!
How do you attach the rotator to the Z/V mount (between tripod and rotator)?
If you are using the Nomad, you'll need to attach it to the Z/V mount using either a ball head with an Arco Swiss type clamp like this: www.moveshootmove.com/cdn/shop/products/DSC4391_720x.jpg?v=1628667953
or a wedge that allows for more precise alignment.
www.moveshootmove.com/cdn/shop/products/DSC4391_720x.jpg?v=1628667953
if you have a power tank connected to the Nomade will it extend the time it can be used?
Great question. I don't know! I'll check now though and answer here. I've not had need to but will be good to know.
Hey. So the answer is yes! The Nomad will work while being charged. Happy shooting!
That make it very tempting@@StargazerMan
I've used a LOT of different trackers over the years and at least for me, it's the best choice. They have great customer service as well and a good Facebook user group where you can get lots of tips and help as well. BTW- They are still offering 10% off so it's a good time to grab one with the link:
www.moveshootmove.com/collections/move-shoot-move-rotator/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339
Hello where i can buy those MSM ?
Hope this helps.
Use one of these links and the Discount Code ''STARGAZERMAN'' for 5% off
1. 👉 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339
2. 👉 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339
3. 👉 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339
4. 👉 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339
Hey! Here you go...
🎁 5% off - Use this link and the Discount Code ''STARGAZERMAN''
🌏 Worldwide Shipping
1. 👉 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339
2. 👉 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339
3. 👉 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339
4. 👉 360° Arca Swiss Panoramic Panning base www.moveshootmove.com/products/360-panoramic-panning-base?aff=339
5. 👉 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339