NOMAD FAQ
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Camera&Lens- Can NOMAD handle my camera + lens setup?
Norman has a maximum payload of 3.5 kg. As long as the total weight of your camera, lens, and accessories is within this limit, Norman can handle your setup. For best tracking performance, we recommend staying below the maximum payload. -
Camera-How does NOMAD WORK or connect with the camera?
The camera is mounted onto NOMAD using a ball head, there’s no electronic connection required. -
Payload-What is the max payload of NOMAD?
The maximum load for NOMAD is 3.5 kg. -
Tripod Compatibility – What tripod works best with NOMAD?
NOMAD can be used with most stable and sturdy tripods available on the market, so you have plenty of options to choose from. For the best experience, a tripod that comes with a ball head or pan-and-tilt head is highly recommended. This is because an adjustable head allows you to make pan and til... -
✅ Basic Setup Principle – How to Mount NOMAD
There are several ways to set up NOMAD, but the basic principle is simple. You will need three key components: 1️⃣ Mounting NOMAD to the tripod A support tool such as a ball head or wedge is needed to attach NOMAD securely to your tripod. This also allows you to adjust the angle for polar align... -
N/S Hemispheres – Can NOMAD operate in both hemispheres?
Yes -
Yes, NOMAD can work in both hemispheres, as it features both N (Northern) and S (Southern) modes. However, before using the NOMAD, you'll need to perform a polar alignment by aligning it to the correct celestial pole: Polaris (Northern Hemisphere) or Sigma Octantis (Southern Hemisphere). For this...
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Which kit works in both hemispheres?
NOMAD phone mount kit -
The difference on kits' names is caused by the alignment tool
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S Hemisphere-Can Norman work in the Southern Hemisphere?
Yes, NOMAD can work in Southern hemisphere. NOMAD phone mount kit is recommended https://www.moveshootmove.com/collections/move-shoot-move-rotator/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?variant=42128160030937 -
Moon-Do you have any information on how to setup the nomad to track the moon?
same as star tracking -
Ballhead-Can I use my own ballhead for the Setup with NOMAD?
Yes, it is ok, normal ballhead can work -
If I already have my own laser pointer, do I have to use the one from you?
Does the laser you have have the threaded part or not? Please check the attached picture. If it is like the one in the attached pictures, it can be worked on NOMAD by an adapter: https://www.moveshootmove.com/products/polar-alignment-for-astro-photography?variant=44309350711513 If the laser does ... -
Does the "Nomad only" option include the laser?
No, it is a piece of NOMAD -
Where can I purchase the NOMAD and the laser pointer without the ballhead?
Please go for NOMAD basic kit -
Power Bank-Can I Use a Power Bank with NOMAD? Can I Charge It While It’s Working?
Yes — you can use a power bank to power your NOMAD star tracker, and you can charge it and run it at the same time. -
NOMAD needs to be carried on as there is lithium battery inside, not packed in checked luggage.
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Battery Life–How long can NOMAD run on a full charge?
NOMAD can typically run for about 5–6 hours on a full charge, depending on usage conditions such as temperature and load. In low temperatures, NOMAD can generally operate around 0°C (32°F) without major issues. However, performance may decline as temperatures drop further, and around -10°C (14°F... -
Cold Weather Performance – Can NOMAD be used in low temperatures?
NOMAD performs reliably in cold conditions around 0°C (32°F) with no significant impact on operation. In more extreme cold (below -10°C / 14°F), battery performance may be affected, which is a common limitation of lithium batteries across all electronic devices. This may result in shorter operat... -
Humid Environments – Can NOMAD be used near waterfalls or in damp conditions?
Yes, NOMAD can be used in humid outdoor environments, including areas near waterfalls. However, it is not waterproof, so care should be taken to avoid direct water exposure or moisture entering the device. Tips for humid conditions: Avoid direct water splashes or heavy mist contact After use, wi... -
Moon/Sun/Comets/Meteors/Aurora – How to shoot different celestial events with NOMAD?
Moon / Sun / Comets / Meteors / Aurora – How to shoot different celestial events with NOMAD? NOMAD is designed as a star tracker, meaning it follows the motion of the night sky to keep stars sharp during long exposures. Depending on the subject, the way you use NOMAD may vary: 🌙 Moon & ☄️ Com... -
Remote Control–Can NOMAD be turned on at a specific time?
NOMAD does not have a remote control or time-delay function -
Are laser pointers allowed in Switzerland and Australia?
The laser pointer we have is 5mw output. Switzerland and Australia have laws that restrict the import and sale of high-powered laser pointers, especially those exceeding 1mW. In some cases, these lasers may only be legally used for specific purposes, such as professional use in astronomy. You may... -
Circular Star Trails-Can I shoot beautiful star trails by selecting the opposite rotation direction?
Yes, you can! For example, if you are in the Northern Hemisphere, you can select the S mode (Southern Hemisphere) on your tracker, it will reverse the rotation direction, allowing you to shoot star trails with the opposite rotation. This will give you beautiful, circular star trails that appear t... -
Is it safe to buy a laser pointer for astronomical use?
The laser we have is 5mw output, normally it is safe to use for astronomy, especially when used responsibly and for their intended purpose. However, some countries have strict regulations regarding the sale and use of laser pointers due to safety concerns. In Switzerland and Australia, there are... -
Kit - Is the Starter Kit (NOMAD, Laser, and Ballhead) not suitable for the Southern Hemisphere?
Yes, the Starter Kit (NOMAD, Laser, and Ballhead) is not ideal for the Southern Hemisphere. This is because the guide star Sigma Octantis is too faint and difficult to locate, making the laser pointer less effective for polar alignment. For the Southern Hemisphere, we recommend using the Phone Mo... -
Kit - Is the Starter Kit (NOMAD, Laser, and Ballhead) not suitable for the Southern Hemisphere?
Yes, the Starter Kit (NOMAD, Laser, and Ballhead) is not ideal for the Southern Hemisphere. This is because the guide star Sigma Octantis is too faint and difficult to locate, making the laser pointer less effective for polar alignment. For the Southern Hemisphere, we recommend using the Phone Mo... -
Long Focal Length-Can I use the NOMAD with a 70-200mm or 800mm lens?
Yes, the NOMAD can support a setup like the Canon R6 Mark III with a 15–35mm f/2.8 lens or a 70–200mm lens, as long as the total weight is under 7.7 pounds. However, an 800mm lens exceeds the intended range for the NOMAD. The NOMAD is designed primarily for short to medium focal lengths, and whi... -
NOMAD-Does it need to be re-calibrated to Polaris every time if NOMAD is turned off?
If you do not move NOMAD after polar alignment and do not accidentally shift it when turning it off, you do not need to recalibrate to Polaris. However, it is recommended to check the polar alignment after 20-30 minutes of use to ensure accuracy. If you move the tripod, recalibration to Polaris i... -
Charging before first use: Normally, NOMAD is shipped with around 40%-60% battery charge, but not fully charged. If it's just for testing, you can use it directly. However, we recommend fully charging the battery before extended use. When the charging light turns green, it is fully charged. Click...
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We’ve created an in-depth open box video to showcase the NOMAD tracker. This video gives a full overview of the tracker, including all the parts, features, and key details, so you can get a complete understanding of what’s inside. Watch the full video here: Open Box Video of NOMAD: https://youtu....
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Which Polar Alignment Tool Is the Most Accurate: Laser, Phone Mount, or Polar Scope?
Among the three tools — Laser Pointer, Phone Mount, and Polar Scope — the Polar Scope is generally the most accurate for polar alignment. The accuracies of the Laser Pointer and Phone Mount are almost the same. Laser Pointer: Quick, easy, and the most convenient tool for polar alignment. However...