ToupTek Astro FAQs

Issue: Upgrading the StellaVita 1.0 App to Version 2.0

How to fix:

1. Use the 1.0 App to upgrade the Core firmware to v1.1.68.
2. Uninstall the 1.0 App and install the 2.0 App. iOS users must uninstall the old version first.
3. Connect to the StellaVita Wi-Fi. Default: StellaVita_XXXX, password: 12345678.
4. Wait for the automatic firmware upgrade to complete. Reconnect after the long beep and confirm version v2.0.0.

Notes: Cross-version upgrades may take a long time. App 2.0 does not retain capture plans from App 1.0. Android beta users must uninstall the beta version before installing the official App.

Issue: Firmware progress bar remains at 100% during upgrade.

How to fix:

1. Disable mobile data.
2. Disconnect from external Wi-Fi networks.
3. Reconnect to the StellaVita Wi-Fi. Default: StellaVita_XXXX, password: 12345678.
4. If still stuck, power-cycle the StellaVita and retry.

Notes: The phone must remain connected to the StellaVita Wi-Fi during the upgrade.

Issue: Extracting files or exporting logs from StellaVita.

How to fix:

1. SMB access while connected to StellaVita Wi-Fi: Windows users can enter \10.0.10.1 in File Explorer. macOS users can connect to smb://10.0.10.1. Username: as; Password: astrostation.
2. Export logs: App > Settings > Others > Log > Select date > Download. Android log path: Documents\ToupTek\log. iOS log path: Files App > Downloads\StellaVita\log.

Notes: The computer must be connected to the StellaVita Wi-Fi.

Issue: How to perform polar alignment in StellaVita App 2.0.

How to fix:

1. Go to Bottom-left Menu > Mount > Polar Alignment.
2. Ensure mount stability, tripod leveling, RA axis pointing north, altitude equal to local latitude, 1-3s exposure, and autofocus completed.
3. Start polar alignment and wait for three images to be captured and solved.
4. Check altitude, azimuth, and total error. Adjust the mount and click Refresh.
5. Repeat until total error is ≤5 arcmin (green). Repeat 2-3 times to double-check.

Notes: Avoid calibration near azimuth 90°/270°, zenith, low declination, low altitude, or meridian flip regions.

Issue: Error values fluctuate without mount adjustment.

How to fix:

1. Arcsecond-level fluctuation: Normal.
2. Arcminute-level fluctuation (>60"): Check tracking, wind, and tripod stability.
3. Degree-level fluctuation (>3600"): Verify mount parameters and location settings.

Notes: Small fluctuations are caused by plate-solving precision, periodic error, and atmospheric seeing. Arcsecond-level fluctuations are considered normal.

Issue: Relationship between AstroStation and StellaVita. Can one be converted into the other through an upgrade?

How to fix:

1. AstroStation is the first-generation product and has been renamed.
2. StellaVita is the current product with updated networking hardware.
3. App v2 refers to software version 2.0 and is independent of firmware version.

Notes: Clarify whether "upgrade" refers to hardware replacement, app update, or firmware update.

Issue: Weak Wi-Fi signal coverage.

How to fix:

1. Compatible USB Wi-Fi adapters: TP-LINK AC1300 (Archer T3U Nano) (recommended) and TP-LINK AC600 (Archer T2UB Nano).
2. Troubleshooting order for disconnection: Adapter model > Power supply > Dual-adapter conflict > Firmware version.

Notes: Third-party adapters are not covered under warranty. WN650BT comes as the standard Wi-Fi adapter.

Issue: OTA upgrade unavailable or failing.

How to fix:

1. Confirm the device model and firmware version.
2. Attempt OTA upgrade. If unavailable, contact technical support with the serial number and firmware version.
3. Follow the return instructions provided by technical support and send the device back for the upgrade.

Notes: Very early firmware versions do not include OTA update functionality. This is a normal product limitation rather than a defect. After the firmware has been upgraded, all subsequent updates can be performed via OTA.

Issue: Can iOS connect to StellaVita after upgrading the firmware with Android?

How to fix:

1. Confirm firmware version 2.0.0.
2. Install the official StellaVita App from the App Store.
3. Connect via Wi-Fi hotspot.

Notes: iOS beta users must uninstall the beta version first.

Issue: Cable, settings, and Bulb mode configurations when connecting to StellaVita.

How to fix:

1. Verify compatibility: https://www.touptek-astro.com.cn/StellaVita/compatibility/
2. Camera settings: Manual (M) Mode, Bulb (B) Exposure, Single-Shot Drive Mode (S), and Manual Focus (MF). Disable Long Exposure Noise Reduction, Auto Power Off, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, HDR, and Multiple Exposure functions.
3. Save images in RAW format.
4. Connect the camera via USB.
5. Enable Bulb Priority Mode in StellaVita, and verify whether the camera requires an additional shutter release cable.

Notes: DSLR and mirrorless cameras do not feature sensor cooling. For long-exposure astrophotography, lower ISO settings are recommended. Keep spare batteries available or use an external power source. Captured files can be retrieved through SMB access (10.0.10.1) or directly from the SD card.

System requirements: Android ≥6.0 (10.0+ recommended, 4 GB RAM); iOS ≥13.0 (15.0+ recommended).

SD Card Compatibility: Compatible with most mainstream SD card capacities.

DSLR/Mirrorless Camera Support: Version 2.0 supports over 60 DSLR and mirrorless camera models. Please check the compatibility list for supported models.

Type-C Port: The Type-C port is used only for factory firmware flashing and does not support file transfer.

Notes: Type-C port does not support data transfer. Low-spec devices may experience reduced performance operation.

Issue: Mount slews incorrectly or tracking fails.

How to fix:

1. Enter Mount Settings. Verify the home position, return to its power-on position, and reset the home position.
2. Confirm mount coordinates, time, location, and timezone.
3. Ensure clutches are locked.

Notes: Stop operation immediately if abnormal slewing occurs.

Issue: Recommended Gain, Offset, and Mode Settings for ATR Series Cameras.

How to fix:

1. Enable HCG + Low Noise Mode.
2. Gain: 100; Offset: 256 or higher.
3. Binning: 1×1; Full resolution capture.
4. Light frames: 120-600s (300s typical); Bias: 0.0001s; Flat frames: ≥1s.
5. Cooling target: ≤0°C (not below -20°C); Warm-up time 3-5 minutes after cooling.

Notes: ATR2600M/C and ATR533M/C do not support HDR mode.

Issue: Offset value cannot be changed in HDR mode on ATR585M/C.

How to fix:

1. High-bit offset: 512.
2. Low-bit offset: 1024.
3. To freely adjust offset, switch to non-HDR mode (HCG or LCG).

Notes: This is a firmware limitation of the HDR algorithm and is normal.

Issue: Sensor temperature cannot reach the set cooling target.

How to fix:

1. Check ambient temperature; keep target within -30°C to +35°C relative to ambient.
2. Turn off front window heater.
3. Ensure fan is running and airflow is not blocked.
4. Verify power supply: ≥12V, ≥28W.
5. Use a high-quality USB 3.0 cable directly connected to the PC without a hub.
6. In N.I.N.A., if no power change after cooling command, restart and reconnect N.I.N.A.
7. Test across different software (N.I.N.A. / SharpCap / ToupSky) and different PCs.

Notes: Do not set below -30°C. High USB error rates may affect TEC control. If all tests fail, further inspection is required.

Issue: What is the minimum safe cooling temperature.

How to fix:

1. Absolute safe limit: -30°C. Do not go below this temperature.
2. Recommended settings: -5°C for short exposure, -10°C for normal use.
3. SDK range: [-500, 400], tectarget unit 0.1°C, but safe limit is -30°C.

Notes: Setting below -30°C may damage the sensor or TEC and is not covered by warranty.

Issue: Cooling does not work or performance drops significantly.

How to fix:

1. Check if fan is spinning normally.
2. Inspect fan and heatsink for dust or blockage.
3. Clean with soft brush or compressed air after power off.
4. Ensure sufficient ventilation around the camera.
5. If fan does not spin, possible hardware failure, please contact support.

Notes: Always power off before cleaning; avoid liquid cleaners.

Issue: Horizontal bands appear in flat frame.

How to fix:

1. Confirm bands are horizontal.
2. Confirm LED flat panel or indoor lighting is used.
3. Increase exposure time to 2-5s.
4. Check if bands disappear.
5. If not, switch to a DC-powered LED light source.
6. If still present, further sensor/system investigation is required.

Notes: Bands only in flats are usually caused by light source flicker.

Issue: ATR color images appear overall green.

How to fix:

1. With narrowband filters such as OIII, green tint is normal.
2. Check white balance settings.
3. Test without filter under white light.
4. If all images appear green, check software color space (RAW vs RGB).

Notes: OIII filters naturally pass green wavelengths, not a defect.

Issue: N.I.N.A. fails to connect to ATR camera.

How to fix:

1. Close all software using the camera, such as ToupSky or SharpCap.
2. Unplug USB, wait 5 seconds, then reconnect.
3. Restart N.I.N.A.
4. Use a high-quality USB 3.0 cable directly to PC without a hub.
5. Check Device Manager shows “USB3.0 Camera”.
6. Update ToupTek ASCOM/SDK driver to latest version.

Notes: Always disconnect camera in software before unplugging USB.

Issue: SharpCap does not recognize the ToupTek camera.

How to fix:

1. Check Device Manager for “USB3.0 Camera”; if missing, change cable/port.
2. Install latest ToupTek ASCOM driver: https://www.touptek-astro.com.cn/downloads/
3. Restart PC after installation.
4. Ensure no other software is using the camera.

Notes: If not detected in Device Manager, this is a USB/driver issue, not SharpCap.

Issue: Camera not recognized in ToupSky.

How to fix:

1. Confirm camera appears in Device Manager.
2. Download latest ToupSky: https://www.touptek-astro.com.cn/downloads/
3. Uninstall old version, install latest version, then restart software.

Notes: Do not use third-party downloads, which may be outdated versions.

Issue: Vignetting appears when using full-frame camera with M42.

How to fix:

1. Full-frame diagonal is about 43mm, while M42 inner diameter is about 38mm, causing insufficient light path.
2. Recommended: AFW-L (7×2") + M54 (about 50mm aperture) + 2" filters, backfocus 55/56mm.
3. Minor vignetting can be corrected with flat frames.

Notes: “Compatible connection” does not guarantee no vignetting. M48 is also insufficient for full-frame, so M54 is recommended.

Issue: Banding, noise increase, or screen flickering.

How to fix:

1. Measure voltage at camera: ≥12V.
2. Power supply ≥28W (≥12V 3A).
3. Check cable length and quality.
4. Avoid shared power supply; use independent power if possible.

Notes: Low voltage may affect TEC lifespan and is not a product defect.

Issue: Frequent USB disconnects, device loss, image transmission interruptions.

How to fix:

1. Use USB 3.0 cable (blue connector) + USB 3.0 port.
2. Connect the camera directly to a rear USB port on the computer motherboard. Do not use a USB hub.
3. Keep cable length ≤3m.
4. Replug after 5 seconds.
5. Check Device Manager for “USB3.0 Camera” without errors.
6. If abnormal, uninstall device and reconnect.

Notes: Always disconnect in software before unplugging USB.

Issue: Required adapters for connecting ATR camera to Nikon lenses.

How to fix:

1. Use M42 to Nikon F mount adapter.
2. Camera flange distance: 17.5mm.
3. Standard extension tubes: 16.5mm / 21mm.
4. Nikon F flange distance: 46.5mm.
5. Combine extension tubes to achieve correct backfocus.

Notes: Incorrect backfocus may prevent focusing.

Issue: Ice-like patterns or “feather frost” appear in images after strong cooling.

How to fix:

1. Turn on front window heater to maximum level (3-4).
2. If unresolved, return for factory service.

Notes: Improper handling may compromise sealed chamber; contact support first.

Issue: Filter size compatibility and selection based on sensor size.

How to fix:

1. AFW-M supports 7×36mm, 8×1.25", 5×2" filter wheels.
2. 1" sensor or smaller: 36mm is sufficient.
3. Full-frame: use AFW-L (7×2") + M54 system.
4. Max filter height ≤6.9mm.

Notes: Full-frame + M42 + AFW-M may cause vignetting. Not recommended.

Yes. All filters feature a precise 2.0mm optical thickness, eliminating the need to refocus when switching channels.

1.25" fits sensors up to 1"; 36mm prevents vignetting on APS-C sensors; 2" provides full coverage for Full-Frame sensors.

No. Advanced IAD multi-layer coatings and OD≥5.0 cutoff blocking effectively suppress internal reflections and star halos.

No. LRGB filters are engineered for Monochrome (mono) cameras. OSC cameras perform best with UV/IR cut or dual-narrowband filters.

Yes. The bandpass design specifically blocks major mercury and sodium streetlamp emissions (540nm and 590nm) to boost contrast.

Issue: Performance and usage scenarios of HOPE D60.

How to fix:

1. 60mm aperture, 280mm focal length, f/4.66, 5-element PAPO design including ED glass.
2. Full-frame illumination >90%.
3. Wide-field nebula imaging, narrowband imaging, and light-pollution areas.
4. Planetary and lunar detail imaging with short focal length, and small deep-sky targets.

Notes: 60mm does not mean low-end; PAPO optical design ensures high performance.

Issue: Whether HOPE D60 supports star diagonal.

How to fix:

1. HOPE D60 is not compatible with star diagonal because there is no designed backfocus/interface.
2. Use M48 to 1.25" eyepiece adapter directly on telescope body.

Notes: Do not force a star diagonal. It may not reach focus and could damage the equipment.

Issue: How to clean dust or stains on the lens.

How to fix:

1. Use air blower to remove dust.
2. Use alcohol + lint-free swab for stains.
3. Use anti-static cloth to remove residue.

Notes: Dust usually does not affect imaging. Do not disassemble optics, as optical misalignment or coating damage caused is not covered by warranty.

Issue: How to use filters with HOPE D60.

How to fix:

1. f/4.66 supports most filters including narrowband with no bandshift issues.
2. M54 adapter has built-in 2" filter thread for direct installation.
3. M48 adapter: old version without RotaTilter has no filter thread; HOPE D60 new version supports 2" filters.

Notes: Avoid overly thick optical filters. Check telescope version when using M48.

Issue: Focuser feels loose or slides when camera is attached.

How to fix:

1. Flip the telescope and locate the two set screws under the focuser.
2. Slightly tighten them with a hex wrench, about 1/8 turn.
3. Install the camera and test damping feel.
4. Repeat if still loose, tightening only slightly each time.

Notes: Do not overtighten or fully tighten. It may damage the focuser. User-caused damage is not covered under warranty.

Issue: Whether HOPE D60 supports medium-format cameras.

How to fix:

1. Not recommended. Image circle of HOPE D60 is 44mm; medium format sensor is 54mm, causing strong vignetting.
2. Recommended for full-frame or smaller sensors (≤43mm diagonal, within image circle).

Notes: Maximum interface is M54. Vignetting cannot be resolved by adapters.

Issue: How to set autofocus parameters for AAF series.

How to fix:

1. Match flexible coupler to focuser shaft (5-4 / 5-5 / 5-6 / 5-7mm).
2. Step size: start at 200 and adjust based on focus curve.
3. Backlash compensation: start at 80 steps, slightly above real backlash.
4. Max range: up to 65000 steps.

Notes: Backlash must be slightly higher than actual value. Too high reduces focusing efficiency. Compatible with ASCOM.

Issue: Guide camera cannot find stars or loses focus after filter change.

How to fix:

1. Focus main camera first, then guide camera.
2. Adjust prism position toward star-rich area.
3. Increase exposure to 2-5s and raise gain slightly.
4. Ensure filter thickness is consistent after changes.
5. Re-focus guide camera if temperature changes >5°C.
6. Check all connections are tight.
7. Ensure prism is not blocked.

Notes: OAG has a small field of view; difficulty finding stars is normal. Do not compromise main camera backfocus for guiding.

Issue: PHD2/StellaVita calibration fails.

How to fix:

1. Increase exposure to 2-5s.
2. Confirm guide scope focal length settings.
3. Check mount stability and balance.
4. Verify mount tracking and guide rates are correct. OnStep: set guide rate to 0.5x in web interface.
5. Use brighter stars.
6. Avoid limits or meridian proximity.
7. Try 8-bit mode in PHD2.
8. Adjust gain. Recommended ≤5000 for ToupTek Astro guide cameras.
9. Reconnect device and restart software.

Notes: Most calibration failures are due to settings, not hardware. Do not touch equipment during calibration.

Issue: Guide camera shows overexposed and no stars visible.

How to fix:

1. Daytime: focus on distant object and mark focus position.
2. Night: use bright objects such as streetlight, Sirius, Jupiter, or Saturn for quick focus. Adjust exposure and gain in ToupSky or SharpCap, and disable auto-stretch if needed.
3. Switch back to PHD2 after focusing.
4. For OAG, focus main camera first.

Notes: Do not focus in PHD2 due to auto-stretch interference. Use ToupSky or SharpCap to focus first.