I started this journey as a newbie 6 months ago. The S50 is my first. I'm kinda old and retired, so a 6 lb scope works for me. I did hundreds of hours of research and then stumbled on the S50. I was heading down the big rig $10K path. I thought $500, why not try. Embracing technology I say to naysayers. I've been having so much fun with this scope, which includes sharing with family and friends. Will I buy the next gen? Probably yes. I have over 100 images of galaxies and nebula so far. I find myself constantly checking the weather. Don't plan on stopping any time soon.
Sounds like you've been bit by the bug! This is exactly what this scope if great for. If you bought all the expensive heavy gear you'd have had a much steeper learning curve and way fewer successful shots. You may have even at this point gotten so frustrated that you decided it's not for you and sold the gear! At least now with the S50 you've learned the basics and have images you can share with people. Everything you do from here on is an improvement. Also, the weight factor is a real issue for sure. Also for Big DOB guys (like myself) you really need to stay fit and strong to lift and setup some of this stuff! Clear skies.
I’m in a similar situation as you being in somewhat advanced years and very much a newbie status. Have wanted to get into astrophotography for years but have always concluded it seems so complicated (not to mention expensive). This maybe the answer to my prayers. Definitely will look into this product. Cheers from Sydney AU
In my 50's and I'm finding I prefer to do visual observing 1st, wide field landscape Milky Way photography 2nd, Lunar & Planetary 3rd, then astrophotography. A lot of why boils down to time.
I have loved astronomy all my life, and bought a Meade ETX-90 over 15 years ago and used it maybe 3-4 times. I'm almost 70 and the Seestar seems perfect for me. Bought one a week ago and am just waiting for good weather. Wish me luck!
My first 'proper' scope was the ETX125. I still have the OTA. Super optics! The S50 is a great little unit and I'm sure you'll love using it. Clear skies.
This is an excellent review, you hit the nail on the head, this is a Smart Telescope for the general public. I watched lots of reviews on the S50, mostly from people that are full fledged astro photographers. Most of them have said how good this telescope is, and I fully agree. However two reviews were very critical, being compared to their $60,000 telescopes they were showing off in the background. These people should have known better, or better still not posted a review in the first place. It is like comparing this very good little Smart Telescope at $500 to the billion dollar Hubble telescope. I have telescopes costing up to 4 thousand pounds, that takes over an hour to set up. Buy the Seastar, you will not regret it, unless you want Hubble quality pictures, in which case you need to save up the one billion dollars plus it took to get it built and put into space. Enjoy the Seastar, it's a great little telescope. Move onto the bigger stuff if you want or have the time to spend an hour plus setting it up and more hours post processing on a computer. I have taken all my photos as they come straight from the S50, not got into post processing yet, not needed to at this stage.
I'm a fairly advanced astrophotographer and purchased this scope about 6 months ago. I find it great for outreach at public star parties. For quick viewing of the Sun the moon and some deep sky objects, it does a good job. I can save, stack, and process individual subframes by checking that feature off.
Using this scope for more than 6 months now. It still amazes me. The ease of use and quality of images are amazing! Used a 10” newton for 10 years, but using the Seestar is way more fun.
@@anata5127 yes and no. Yes because it is more fun, I spent more time with the Seestar. And the magic word in astrophotography is ‘intergrationtime’. Right now I have a project on messier 101 with an intergationtime of 7.4 hours over several nights. Wouldn’t and couldn’t do that with the newton. No because a bigger telescope gives better results. Would mean that I have to spend a thousand or two in € to get high quality images. Right now the fun outweighs the quality 😇
I got my Seestar back in May, and so far, I love it. I feel like, yeah maybe a more expensive rig would be better..but it also requires a lot more work and adjusting to get it to work right. I have gotten to point where I can open the trunk of my car, take this out of its box, and be filming 5 minutes later. I am not a pro at editing the stacked images yet, but I can edit the regular stills that it sends to my cell just fine. And I have gotten some great images out of that! To be honest, some of the photography I get out of this totally blows my mind. I never expected to see things like nebulas, or clusters or even satellite trails. For $500, this is seriously the best toy I've ever treated myself to in my life.
I totally agree! It goes without saying the more expensive dedicated rigs will yield better results but it's all relative. I think the S50 is a gateway into that world should you want it as opposed to people buying all the other bits and getting frustrated and turned off, eventually quitting the hobby.
Loved your comments about the more snobbish astronomy buffs who might denigrate someone using any kind of automated "toy" like product lol. I see it from a different angle - it may help bring new people into the field by giving them a simpler less complicated entry path! Ignore the snobs and enjoy the possibilities.
Just stumbled onto your feed after purchasing my seestar online today. But just came to say that I have the same NOFX shirt! Haha! Just saw their last 3 shows in Cali. 🤟🏼
These little smart scopes are game changers. I had a HyperStar, ASI294, ASI Air and a $170 tri band filter for imaging. This $450 scope replaced $1500 of imaging equipment that it combines into one unit and does better, provided you post process the fits captured. Simply an incredible little gadget. And they’ll only get better. I keep my C8 around because someone seeing Saturn or Jupiter or the moon with their own eyeballs is a big deal - but anything imaging? I’m sold on smart scopes. So much less BS.
My location has persistent banner clouds and going further involves crossing an International Border, so my outings are necessarily limited. Anything that can save on setting-up time is great, and frankly messing about with Cameras, cabling and batteries gets old after a while, let alone lugging a large suitcase of gear everywhere. Yup, I'm gonna invest in a Seestar!
I hear ya on the clouds and I don't have the time, patience or young back for carting big gear around any more. (Yet somehow still have a 15'' Dob) Enjoy it when it arrives!
Loving this scope so far as my yard has lots of trees and I am surrounded by 2 story houses. So I have to move the scope up to 4 times a night. But that is simple using the Seestar as all I have to do is to re-level it. I love your video BTW.
These types of scopes are allowing many amateurs the chance to try astrophotography. Yes it won't beat the Pro set ups. But it allows people who don't have bottomless pockets the chance to take/capture deep sky images and tbh it's good. Seen some Pro user's use this and with extra stacking/processing programs. Produces images that are very good.
100% agree. For relatively little cost what this scope packs in is actually amazing. Beginners can get fantastic images right out of the box (unheard of even 5 years ago!) and with a little extra learning and effort, you can get top results by processing the files externally.
I'm interested in purchasing these items from you son. Option 2: Seestar S50 Dew / Light Pollution Shield + Star Spikers I am a full-time commercial photographer for publicity and production shooting. Dance, music, and theatre. I became interested in astrophotography. I don't listen to those who rag on people like myself who want to try something new. If others would like to do so, I don't have any time for them. Thanks for this review. I'm very excited to try this device.
Hey! We're back and he's added the listing to eBay. Hopefully you can see it. Let me know if there is something we need to change / add. www.ebay.com/itm/116288215683?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Oh thanks! Well, whichever one you decide to buy don't forget to use my affiliate link in the description 😎 No cost to you but helps the channel. 🤙collabs.shop/wlovks
Hi I live on the island of st croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands- I waiting to receive my seestar and I ordered your sons adapter equipment any tips for being on the equator- the night sky’s are amazing here thanks tyler
Hi Tyler. Scott says a big thank you for ordering! You live in an area where the Milky Way core is so fantastically positioned. This area (for me at last) has some of the most amazing deep sky objects. Triffid and Lagoon nebulas for starters, but clusters like M22 are also great. These are literally on or below the horizon from my 57° North which is why I went to Tenerife a few weeks ago. Not quite your (7°?) but a lot better than I'm used to. I hope the accessories work out and any issues just let us know. Clear skies!
@@StargazerMan -I used to teach several medical/scientific topics-some to newcomers to topics, it is surprising just how much we leave out sometimes at the basic and important level. I may seem obvious to us but some of the 'trivial' points answer the biggest questions. A bigger tablet is a lot easier to use with cold fingers and in the dark, for instance. Greetings from the dark skies down under.-Southern Cross Observatory-Tasmania-42 South, Over 60+ years of both amateur and professional astronomy interleaved with a medical background.
I was wanted this as my first one but I want to view through an eyepiece too and take photos. I want planets and deep space objects. I hope you can point me in the right direction that doesn't break the bank.
I've seen some great images taken with the 150pds. What camera did you use? I've recently bought a 2nd hand Canon 6D (having stupidly sold off my original one a few years ago). The EQ6 is a great mount also, but time (and bulk) are a big factor for many, myself included. The ASI Air etc have taken the sport to new simpler/faster setups but the bulk remains. I love the speed and portability of the S50.
As far as pretending to be a complete beginner I would have liked to see how to download and update the app and the routine to calibrate the compass. I guess you assume we are fairly computer literate and that the instructions provided by the S50 are sufficient for compass calibration. A word of warning - If you use a sturdier tripod then turning it to calibrate the compass is tricky and if you leveled the tripod before mounting the unit then your leveling will have been in vain so a photographic leveling mounting head is a must. Other than that great stuff, thank you.
You're welcome! Great feedback. It's definitely a balancing act of showing 'just enough' over very detailed steps. You're 100% correct in saying you should do a compass calibration before leveling. I've found a way to make it slightly easier is using the attachment I show and basically just turning the unit on that as opposed to the legs (it's even easier on the AZ Gti mount). Clear skies!
Fantastic overview, thank you! I'm trying to decide between buying the Seestar S50 or the new Dwarf 3. Have you had a chance to review the news Dwarf yet?
Thanks! DwarfLab haven't sent out any for review yet. The specs are available alright but you'd need to see it in operation and the results to help you make your mind up. Although similar in that they are both "smart scopes" they are quite different in other ways.
Got this video recommended, found a used s50 for sale at almost half price, bought it. My vacation starts tomorrow, so hopefully this will help me kill a few hours.
If something is designed "for beginners", then planets should definitely be part of the capabilities. Don't recommend buying until a new device covers that also, for beginners.
Hi Bento. Thanks for commenting. You've made me realize something! While the S50 does have a 'Planets' mode, it's designed for and best at deep sky objects, the Sun and the Moon (and daytime scenery) and most beginners may not realize this. I think beginners may expect a scope to be a complete 'all rounder' but there really is no such thing. What I believe you're suggesting is, for the ultimate 'beginner' scope, planets should also be part of the capabilities (while S50 does capture and stack planets, the results are probably disappointing as they are so small). This isn't a bad reflection on the scope, just that, for planets, a scope needs to have a high focal length. I have a single scope that I use really only on the planets because of this and I use it in conjunction with a very narrow field of view planetary camera sensor and magnify using a 2x Barlow lens. This allows me to get pretty decent images www.flickr.com/photos/franks_astrophotography/albums/72157594300479840/ If the S50 had this setup then you simply wouldn't be able to shoot anything else OTHER than the planets. You'd only fit a tiny part of any deep sky object in the frame and even the Moon, it would just be a small portion of the surface. So they way to look at it is, the S50 offers a decently deep field of view that allows beginners to capture a great mix of all the bright deep sky objects of varying sizes which means practically endless targets to choose. Hopefully with some software updates Seestar will implement a mosaic feature that will allow you to fit the biggest areas like Andromeda or The Veil nebula entirely in the frame. There are other smart scopes that have a wider field of view, for example the Dwarf2. While you can fit more sky in the frame, most objects look small in comparison to the FOV (field of view) of the S50. But, there are pros and cons to every piece of gear. Thanks again for your comment. I think it's easy for us old dogs to just assume people know some of this and I must point it out in future videos. Clear Skies and keep lookin' up!
Apparently you haven't worked out that telescopes for imaging planets must have a completely different design than telescopes for Deep Space Objects. You are a person who wants "everything and now". However, it doesn't work that way because the laws of optics are above your egoistic demands. There is no telescope that can image the planets well and also DSO at the same time.
You probably haven't figured out that telescopes for imaging planets must have a completely different design than telescopes for Deep Space Objects. You are a person who wants "everything and now". However, it doesn't work that way because the laws of optics are above your egoistic demands. There is no telescope that can image planets and DSOs well at the same time.
Hope your back is better. I've a 16" Dob that I had to come up with a way to make it compact/easy to move (into the car and to the dark sites). Same with the old EQ mount for my photo setup. Having the 'run and gun' option is always nice and especially when you're physically prevented.
Hey. I was sent the unit by ZWO from one of their German sellers and it took a week or so. Stephen in K-Tec Telescopes here in Dublin has them in stock ktectelescopes.ie/collections/zwo-mounts/products/zwo-seestar-s50-all-in-one-smart-apo-refractor-telescope Presumably you'd get it in a day or two from him. @ktectelescopesireland3777
@@StargazerMan cheers for the reply mate, yeah was looking at ktec bought stuff off Stephen before sound lad and horizon, it's 460 quid to buy direct from zwo but nearly 800 from all European sellers, might just bite the bullet and wait the longer delivery time buying direct for half the price.
Hey! Sorry for the delay. We were away for a few weeks. He's added the listing now to eBay - hopefully you can see it there. Shout if I need to change anything. www.ebay.ie/itm/116288215683?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=5282-175127-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
The BIGGEST BENEFIT of the Seestar is the wifi connection. I can lay on my warm comfy bed viewing the universe while my telescope is outside in the cold. No more freezing toes and hands.
Hi Alex. Thanks for your patience. He's finally got the listing up on eBay. :-) I've added some context to the description and also some images to support. He's batch printed a bunch and changed the options a bit so this now includes a Bahtinov mask. Shout if you'd like to change anything around or if you feel the price is off. Thanks! www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116288340195?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2524149&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
@gilessmithson6057 sure! So you point your Seestar at a bright star. Do an automatic focus. Then pop on the mask. If the defraction pattern forms a perfect intersection it's in perfect focus. If they are out then you can switch to manual focusing on the Seestar and move in and out until the lines intersect perfectly.
Hi. sorry for the delay! We were away for a few days. He's set up the listing now on eBay for the shield if that suits you? We can edit/change it to whatever country you are in etc. UK: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116288136110 USA: www.ebay.com/itm/116288136110
Just ordered an Seestar S 50 from ZWO. Paid on Credit card but then rang up wanting another £106 for customs. I live in UK is this normal or is it a scam ?
Yeah if you order direct from them and your in the UK then there is a customs charge. If you order through a UK retailer then the charges are included. Curious they they called you, I've not heard of that before. Did you order using one of the affiliate links I have in the description or somewhere else?
I think they are 2 very different scopes! It comes down to what do you mostly want to use it for / achieve. I've seen some comparison videos that give a sense of what each are good at bit I this unfair for example to say one is 'better' than the other when it comes to things that are subject to the users taste. For example, the D2 has a wider Fov so this suits people that are after that aspect, if you are looking for narrower Fov then S50 is for you, one isn't better than the other, they are just different. As in, a zoom lens is different to a wide field lens. I think I need to make a comparison video!!!
Hey! I've not heard of any issues with shipping to Europe. You'd just need to check what if any customs charge you might have in your location. There are some shops that sell in Europe and the price reflects this. 🔭 ZWO Seestar S50 🔭 🌏 Direct from manufacturer 👉 ZWO Seestar: collabs.shop/wlovks 🌏 European Union 👉 AstroShop: www.astroshop.eu/telescopes/zwo-smart-telescope-ap-50-250-seestar-s50/p,78688?affiliate_id=STARGAZERMAN
I can’t believe I spent around £3000 on the Unisteller EVscope when this thing seems better for around £500! Does anyone have the Dwarf 3 yet? And is it a good upgrade?
Someone, please explain to me how the S50 can show DSO without magnification. How is it done with filters, Sensor IMX462, and an Apochromatic triplet lens?
Hey. In astronomy, especially when observing deep sky objects (DSOs) like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, the key factor that determines the quality of your observations and images is not magnification, but rather light gathering. Here's why: **Faintness of Deep Sky Objects** DSOs are incredibly faint and often emit very little light compared to objects within our solar system, like planets or the Moon. The light they do emit has often traveled millions or even billions of light-years to reach us. By the time it gets here, it's extremely dim. To see these objects, your telescope needs to gather as much of this faint light as possible. **Light Gathering Power** The light-gathering power of a telescope is primarily determined by the diameter of its aperture (the main lens or mirror). The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can collect. This is why telescopes are often characterized by their aperture size - a larger aperture means the telescope can gather more light and thus reveal fainter objects. This light-gathering ability is crucial for DSOs because they often require the collection of every photon available to be seen or photographed. A telescope with a larger aperture can collect more photons over the same period, making faint objects appear brighter and more detailed in the eyepiece or on a sensor. **Magnification: A Secondary Concern** Magnification only enlarges the image created by the telescope. While this can be useful for observing details on brighter objects (like the planets or the Moon), increasing magnification on faint DSOs can actually make them harder to see. This is because as you magnify an image, you spread the light over a larger area, effectively dimming the image. For DSOs, high magnification can make an already faint object almost impossible to detect because it reduces the surface brightness of the object. If the telescope hasn’t gathered enough light to begin with, no amount of magnification will make a faint object clearer. **Contrast and Detail** More light not only makes objects appear brighter, but it also increases contrast and reveals more detail. For example, in astrophotography, longer exposures (or image stacking) allow the telescope's sensor to collect more light, which can reveal subtle structures in nebulae or the faint spiral arms of a distant galaxy that would otherwise be invisible. **Wide Field of View** A telescope designed with a focus on light gathering rather than magnification often provides a wider field of view. This is particularly advantageous for DSOs because many of them, such as the Andromeda Galaxy or the Orion Nebula, cover large areas of the sky. A wide field of view allows you to see these objects in their entirety, rather than just a small, magnified portion. When it comes to observing DSOs, the ability to gather light is far more important than magnification. Light gathering allows you to detect faint objects, increase their contrast, and see more detail, whereas excessive magnification without sufficient light can make objects appear dimmer and less detailed. Therefore, astronomers prioritize telescopes with large apertures that maximize light gathering, allowing them to explore the depths of the universe effectively.
The Seestar S50, like many modern smart telescopes, prioritizes light gathering over traditional magnification to observe and capture images of Deep Sky Objects (DSOs). Here’s how the Seestar specifically addresses the importance of light gathering: ### 1. **Aperture and Light Gathering** The Seestar S50 has a modest aperture size (generally around 50mm), which is not large compared to more traditional, high-end telescopes. However, it compensates for this smaller aperture by using a high-quality apochromatic triplet lens and a highly sensitive image sensor (Sony IMX462) optimized for low-light conditions. The design ensures that the light collected is used as efficiently as possible, reducing optical aberrations and maximizing the clarity of the images. ### 2. **Optimized for Low Light** The IMX462 sensor in the Seestar S50 is particularly effective at gathering light in low-light environments, which is crucial for observing DSOs. The sensor’s ability to capture more light in shorter exposure times allows the Seestar to provide clear images of faint objects without the need for extensive manual adjustment or tracking that traditional telescopes might require. ### 3. **Image Stacking and Processing** One of the key features of the Seestar S50 is its ability to use image stacking and advanced processing to enhance the images of DSOs. The telescope captures multiple short-exposure images and then uses software to combine these images. This process, known as stacking, effectively increases the amount of light gathered by summing the light from each exposure, resulting in a final image that reveals much more detail than any single exposure would. This technique is particularly important for DSOs, which can be too faint to observe clearly with just a single exposure. By increasing the effective light gathering through stacking, the Seestar S50 can produce bright, detailed images of DSOs without relying on traditional magnification. ### 4. **Use of Filters** The Seestar S50 also uses filters to selectively enhance the light from specific types of DSOs. For example, filters that isolate the wavelengths of light emitted by nebulae (like Hydrogen-alpha) can improve the contrast and visibility of these objects against the background sky. This filtering process further enhances the telescope’s light-gathering capability, making faint details more visible. ### 5. **Integrated Approach Over Magnification** Instead of focusing on magnifying the image, the Seestar S50 integrates its optical, sensor, and software capabilities to optimize the light it gathers. This allows users to see DSOs with greater clarity and detail without needing to rely on high magnification, which, as mentioned earlier, would only reduce the surface brightness of faint objects. ### Conclusion For the Seestar S50, the emphasis on light gathering rather than magnification is what allows it to effectively capture DSOs. By optimizing its optics, sensor sensitivity, and leveraging advanced image processing, the Seestar S50 can provide clear and detailed images of faint celestial objects, making it an accessible and powerful tool for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers. This approach aligns perfectly with the principles of modern astronomy, where capturing more light is key to revealing the wonders of the universe.
Instead of all these unnecessary levelers, just use an adjustable table what resin model users use. They are Cheap as chips. Then calibrate the Seestar on it. Install included tripod, place on a flat surface outside or use the same table you calibrated it on and you're good to go.
I've yet to image using it in EQ mode. Have some targets planned this winter season that will benefit from the fixed orientation. Looking forward to giving it a go.
It's a great start into the hobby. Not visual but you do get to 'see' what's out there on your phone screen and get to make cool photos! There is a new model just about to be released. Hit subscribe as I'm going to be reviewing it.
Thanks! So the mask helps to manually adjust which allows you to get precise focus. It's not that the S50 doesn't have a perfectly good autofocuser, it's just us astrophotographers use a Bahtinov mask for focusing because it provides a highly accurate and reliable manual method for achieving precise focus, which can sometimes be challenging for electronic focusing systems alone. Here are a few reasons why a Bahtinov mask is preferred by many: 1. Precision in Focus The Bahtinov mask produces a diffraction pattern when placed over the telescope’s objective lens or aperture. This pattern consists of three intersecting lines (spikes) that shift as you adjust the focus. When the middle spike is perfectly centered between the other two, it confirms precise focus. This level of visual feedback allows for very fine focus adjustments, often more accurate than relying solely on autofocus algorithms, especially in low-light conditions like astrophotography. 2. Electronic Focusing Limitations While modern autofocus systems are useful, they can struggle in the specific conditions of astrophotography. In deep sky imaging, stars are often faint, and autofocus systems may have difficulty locking onto a dim object or interpreting the right focus point in long exposures. Light from stars is different from the kinds of subjects autofocus systems are designed to handle, leading to errors or inefficiencies. 3. Manual Control A Bahtinov mask allows for more direct control over focus. Even with advanced electronic focusers, astrophotographers often prefer to use the mask to make fine adjustments manually. This ensures that the focus is exactly where it needs to be, without depending on the algorithms of an autofocus system, which might not always work optimally in every scenario (e.g., changing temperature affecting focus or subtle atmospheric changes). 4. Temperature and Focus Drift In astrophotography, telescopes are prone to focus drift due to temperature changes throughout the night. A Bahtinov mask makes it easy to periodically recheck and fine-tune the focus manually without relying on software or sensors that might not detect minute changes as accurately. 5. Cost and Simplicity A Bahtinov mask is a low-cost, simple tool that can be used on any telescope without needing additional electronics. Some astrophotographers prefer the simplicity and reliability of this manual focusing method rather than investing in complex autofocus systems, which can be more expensive and introduce additional points of failure. In summary, while electronic focusing is convenient, a Bahtinov mask provides a very high level of accuracy and consistency for astrophotographers, especially in challenging low-light conditions. Many prefer the combination of using both methods for maximum focusing precision. Hope this helps! 🙂
Yes, personally, I find it does. Although the automatic focus is fine. I just like to have manual control that accounts for any changes in the focus as the night goes on. 🔭 3D Printed Seestar S50 Accessories 🔭 (My Son’s school project 😊) 👉 Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/StargazerMan S50 Dew / Light Pollution Shield + 2 Star Spikers + Bahtinov Mask.
I hesitate to buy a Seestar S50 for the fact that in the Netherlands the scope costs about 700 euro while buying it directly from ZWO it will cost about 520 euro including transport + VAT + import duties. At the other hand, if there is a problem with the product after some time you have a problem in repairing the product. Also the fact that it is expected that a successor of the S50 with improved specs in Fall 2024 will be released is a reason for doubting to buy the S50 now. However the price will be higher and the problem of the EU price level still stands. 😢 Question: Did you buy the scope directly from ZWO in China?
Hi. That is always the tricky choice. I usually accept the extra cost because you have an easy way to return if you have a problem with the item. This unit was sent to me by ZWO to review but it came from one of the suppliers in Germany within a few days.
Ja heel erg raar dat hij hier zo veel duurder is ik he ruik hem nu bijna 8 maanden en vind hem nog steeds fantastisch ben er heel blij mee en maakt astrophotografie stukken makkelijker
@@staphorst48 Ik heb inmiddels de knoop doorgehakt en de scope rechtstreeks bij ZWO besteld en deze is inmiddels onderweg naar mijn locatie. Het is een risico, weet ik, maar ook wel eens leuk om een bestelling rechtstreeks uit China te halen. Het transport via DHL verloopt goed en je wordt goed op de hoogte gehouden via mail updates. Verwacht de S50 donderslag a.s. dus ruim een week na bestelling wat reuze meevalt. Goed te horen dat je nog steeds enthousiast bent over de S50 want dat stelt mijn geduld wel op de proef!
Less talk about "gatekeepers" vs novices would be better, concentrate on the subject 'One year on from release - does it live up to the hype?' amongst all the talk, you haven't answered the question..."does it live up to the hype"?
A fair comment! I'm still finding my feet with this RUclips lark so appreciate constructive feedback. Indeed I did not answer the question. For what it's worth, I do believe it's lived up to the hype.
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I started this journey as a newbie 6 months ago. The S50 is my first. I'm kinda old and retired, so a 6 lb scope works for me. I did hundreds of hours of research and then stumbled on the S50. I was heading down the big rig $10K path. I thought $500, why not try. Embracing technology I say to naysayers. I've been having so much fun with this scope, which includes sharing with family and friends. Will I buy the next gen? Probably yes. I have over 100 images of galaxies and nebula so far. I find myself constantly checking the weather. Don't plan on stopping any time soon.
Sounds like you've been bit by the bug! This is exactly what this scope if great for. If you bought all the expensive heavy gear you'd have had a much steeper learning curve and way fewer successful shots. You may have even at this point gotten so frustrated that you decided it's not for you and sold the gear!
At least now with the S50 you've learned the basics and have images you can share with people. Everything you do from here on is an improvement.
Also, the weight factor is a real issue for sure. Also for Big DOB guys (like myself) you really need to stay fit and strong to lift and setup some of this stuff!
Clear skies.
I’m in a similar situation as you being in somewhat advanced years and very much a newbie status. Have wanted to get into astrophotography for years but have always concluded it seems so complicated (not to mention expensive). This maybe the answer to my prayers. Definitely will look into this product. Cheers from Sydney AU
In my 50's and I'm finding I prefer to do visual observing 1st, wide field landscape Milky Way photography 2nd, Lunar & Planetary 3rd, then astrophotography. A lot of why boils down to time.
Sell me your old one. When you buy the next Gen.
I have loved astronomy all my life, and bought a Meade ETX-90 over 15 years ago and used it maybe 3-4 times. I'm almost 70 and the Seestar seems perfect for me. Bought one a week ago and am just waiting for good weather. Wish me luck!
My first 'proper' scope was the ETX125. I still have the OTA. Super optics! The S50 is a great little unit and I'm sure you'll love using it. Clear skies.
This is an excellent review, you hit the nail on the head, this is a Smart Telescope for the general public. I watched lots of reviews on the S50, mostly from people that are full fledged astro photographers. Most of them have said how good this telescope is, and I fully agree. However two reviews were very critical, being compared to their $60,000 telescopes they were showing off in the background. These people should have known better, or better still not posted a review in the first place. It is like comparing this very good little Smart Telescope at $500 to the billion dollar Hubble telescope. I have telescopes costing up to 4 thousand pounds, that takes over an hour to set up. Buy the Seastar, you will not regret it, unless you want Hubble quality pictures, in which case you need to save up the one billion dollars plus it took to get it built and put into space. Enjoy the Seastar, it's a great little telescope. Move onto the bigger stuff if you want or have the time to spend an hour plus setting it up and more hours post processing on a computer. I have taken all my photos as they come straight from the S50, not got into post processing yet, not needed to at this stage.
ed ting is a bitter gatekeeper. it's funny to see the comments in his video calling him out!
I'm a fairly advanced astrophotographer and purchased this scope about 6 months ago. I find it great for outreach at public star parties.
For quick viewing of the Sun the moon and some deep sky objects, it does a good job. I can save, stack, and process individual subframes by checking that feature off.
Using this scope for more than 6 months now. It still amazes me. The ease of use and quality of images are amazing! Used a 10” newton for 10 years, but using the Seestar is way more fun.
I have to agree. It's not trying to compete with expensive dedicated scopes with cooled CCD cameras / guide scopes etc. It is what it is.
Do you get SeeStar images better than by 10” newton?
@@anata5127 yes and no. Yes because it is more fun, I spent more time with the Seestar. And the magic word in astrophotography is ‘intergrationtime’. Right now I have a project on messier 101 with an intergationtime of 7.4 hours over several nights. Wouldn’t and couldn’t do that with the newton. No because a bigger telescope gives better results. Would mean that I have to spend a thousand or two in € to get high quality images. Right now the fun outweighs the quality 😇
@@anata5127for the most part, I would say yes for DSO. Maybe not so much for planets.
@@anata5127 Stupid comment
I got my Seestar back in May, and so far, I love it. I feel like, yeah maybe a more expensive rig would be better..but it also requires a lot more work and adjusting to get it to work right. I have gotten to point where I can open the trunk of my car, take this out of its box, and be filming 5 minutes later. I am not a pro at editing the stacked images yet, but I can edit the regular stills that it sends to my cell just fine. And I have gotten some great images out of that! To be honest, some of the photography I get out of this totally blows my mind. I never expected to see things like nebulas, or clusters or even satellite trails. For $500, this is seriously the best toy I've ever treated myself to in my life.
I totally agree! It goes without saying the more expensive dedicated rigs will yield better results but it's all relative. I think the S50 is a gateway into that world should you want it as opposed to people buying all the other bits and getting frustrated and turned off, eventually quitting the hobby.
@@StargazerManat 72 my wife and I enjoy this so without breaking the bank I'd like to get just one
Hello there. You are the people I really need for reviews on a product. Very long and detailed video. Keep up the good work and God bless.
Thanks for the kind words!
Capturing ISS transit!... Fabulous 🎉
Thanks! It's actually so simple with the Seestar.
Those images are a lot better than I expected from such a small 'scope.
Indeed! It may be small but it can produce surprisingly great images.
Loved your comments about the more snobbish astronomy buffs who might denigrate someone using any kind of automated "toy" like product lol. I see it from a different angle - it may help bring new people into the field by giving them a simpler less complicated entry path! Ignore the snobs and enjoy the possibilities.
💯
Just stumbled onto your feed after purchasing my seestar online today. But just came to say that I have the same NOFX shirt! Haha! Just saw their last 3 shows in Cali. 🤟🏼
I saw them in Chicago the week before! Astro punkers unite!
@ awesome I saw them in Brooklyn first and those shows were so good we flew out to Cali for the last three shows. Was amazing! Punk is not dead! 💀
These little smart scopes are game changers. I had a HyperStar, ASI294, ASI Air and a $170 tri band filter for imaging.
This $450 scope replaced $1500 of imaging equipment that it combines into one unit and does better, provided you post process the fits captured. Simply an incredible little gadget. And they’ll only get better.
I keep my C8 around because someone seeing Saturn or Jupiter or the moon with their own eyeballs is a big deal - but anything imaging? I’m sold on smart scopes. So much less BS.
Totally agree. These are only the beginning of what is possible or to come.
My location has persistent banner clouds and going further involves crossing an International Border, so my outings are necessarily limited. Anything that can save on setting-up time is great, and frankly messing about with Cameras, cabling and batteries gets old after a while, let alone lugging a large suitcase of gear everywhere.
Yup, I'm gonna invest in a Seestar!
I hear ya on the clouds and I don't have the time, patience or young back for carting big gear around any more. (Yet somehow still have a 15'' Dob)
Enjoy it when it arrives!
Loving this scope so far as my yard has lots of trees and I am surrounded by 2 story houses. So I have to move the scope up to 4 times a night. But that is simple using the Seestar as all I have to do is to re-level it. I love your video BTW.
Thanks! Yes it's super fast and easy to reposition the scope.
These types of scopes are allowing many amateurs the chance to try astrophotography. Yes it won't beat the Pro set ups. But it allows people who don't have bottomless pockets the chance to take/capture deep sky images and tbh it's good. Seen some Pro user's use this and with extra stacking/processing programs. Produces images that are very good.
100% agree. For relatively little cost what this scope packs in is actually amazing. Beginners can get fantastic images right out of the box (unheard of even 5 years ago!) and with a little extra learning and effort, you can get top results by processing the files externally.
Outstanding view thank you. Mine arrives Tuesday.
Thanks. Best of luck! Clear skies.
I'm interested in purchasing these items from you son. Option 2: Seestar S50 Dew / Light Pollution Shield + Star Spikers
I am a full-time commercial photographer for publicity and production shooting. Dance, music, and theatre. I became interested in astrophotography. I don't listen to those who rag on people like myself who want to try something new. If others would like to do so, I don't have any time for them. Thanks for this review. I'm very excited to try this device.
Hi Mark. This is great! He's delighted ☺️. Is it ok if we come back to you in 2 weeks? We're on vacation at the moment so he can't print anything.
@@StargazerMan enjoy your vacation.
Hey! We're back and he's added the listing to eBay. Hopefully you can see it. Let me know if there is something we need to change / add.
www.ebay.com/itm/116288215683?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Best review ever! Thanks a lot from Serbia. I will buy this one or maybe wait for S30.
Oh thanks! Well, whichever one you decide to buy don't forget to use my affiliate link in the description 😎
No cost to you but helps the channel. 🤙collabs.shop/wlovks
Hi I live on the island of st croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands- I waiting to receive my seestar and I ordered your sons adapter equipment any tips for being on the equator- the night sky’s are amazing here thanks tyler
Hi Tyler. Scott says a big thank you for ordering! You live in an area where the Milky Way core is so fantastically positioned. This area (for me at last) has some of the most amazing deep sky objects. Triffid and Lagoon nebulas for starters, but clusters like M22 are also great. These are literally on or below the horizon from my 57° North which is why I went to Tenerife a few weeks ago. Not quite your (7°?) but a lot better than I'm used to. I hope the accessories work out and any issues just let us know. Clear skies!
You might like to add download the control App to phone or tablet before firing up the unit, as this is a ‘how to’ for novice first time user.😊
Good point!
@@StargazerMan -I used to teach several medical/scientific topics-some to newcomers to topics, it is surprising just how much we leave out sometimes at the basic and important level. I may seem obvious to us but some of the 'trivial' points answer the biggest questions. A bigger tablet is a lot easier to use with cold fingers and in the dark, for instance. Greetings from the dark skies down under.-Southern Cross Observatory-Tasmania-42 South, Over 60+ years of both amateur and professional astronomy interleaved with a medical background.
Ahhhh you must have great skies there! Indeed the tablet option is a great point also. I've recently started using an iPad and love the ease of use.
Thanks from a newcomer to astrophoto, pretty helpful and detailed video!
Your welcome!
Good intro and review. Also using Siril to post process the files from the Seestar one can get good images with a small effort.
Thanks! I've downloaded Pixinsight and I'm planning on learning it but Siril is perfect for now.
I was wanted this as my first one but I want to view through an eyepiece too and take photos. I want planets and deep space objects. I hope you can point me in the right direction that doesn't break the bank.
I recently sold my eq6 and skywatcher 150pds cuz didnt have the time basically, so thinking of biting the bullet with this
I've seen some great images taken with the 150pds. What camera did you use?
I've recently bought a 2nd hand Canon 6D (having stupidly sold off my original one a few years ago).
The EQ6 is a great mount also, but time (and bulk) are a big factor for many, myself included.
The ASI Air etc have taken the sport to new simpler/faster setups but the bulk remains.
I love the speed and portability of the S50.
As far as pretending to be a complete beginner I would have liked to see how to download and update the app and the routine to calibrate the compass. I guess you assume we are fairly computer literate and that the instructions provided by the S50 are sufficient for compass calibration. A word of warning - If you use a sturdier tripod then turning it to calibrate the compass is tricky and if you leveled the tripod before mounting the unit then your leveling will have been in vain so a photographic leveling mounting head is a must. Other than that great stuff, thank you.
You're welcome! Great feedback. It's definitely a balancing act of showing 'just enough' over very detailed steps.
You're 100% correct in saying you should do a compass calibration before leveling. I've found a way to make it slightly easier is using the attachment I show and basically just turning the unit on that as opposed to the legs (it's even easier on the AZ Gti mount).
Clear skies!
I commented a month ago. 💯 % worth it.
I love mine love it!
Fantastic overview, thank you! I'm trying to decide between buying the Seestar S50 or the new Dwarf 3. Have you had a chance to review the news Dwarf yet?
Thanks! DwarfLab haven't sent out any for review yet. The specs are available alright but you'd need to see it in operation and the results to help you make your mind up.
Although similar in that they are both "smart scopes" they are quite different in other ways.
Got this video recommended, found a used s50 for sale at almost half price, bought it.
My vacation starts tomorrow, so hopefully this will help me kill a few hours.
Wow... Nice price!
Fantastic video! Thankyou!!
You're welcome
At a older age and minimum funds whats a good telescope for watching the planets to more.
Hi, greeting from UAE thanks for the nice demo. By the way can i combine the moon shot with airplane while flying across or sunset?
Hi! I'm not entirely shur what you mean. 🙂
If something is designed "for beginners", then planets should definitely be part of the capabilities. Don't recommend buying until a new device covers that also, for beginners.
Hi Bento. Thanks for commenting. You've made me realize something! While the S50 does have a 'Planets' mode, it's designed for and best at deep sky objects, the Sun and the Moon (and daytime scenery) and most beginners may not realize this. I think beginners may expect a scope to be a complete 'all rounder' but there really is no such thing.
What I believe you're suggesting is, for the ultimate 'beginner' scope, planets should also be part of the capabilities (while S50 does capture and stack planets, the results are probably disappointing as they are so small). This isn't a bad reflection on the scope, just that, for planets, a scope needs to have a high focal length. I have a single scope that I use really only on the planets because of this and I use it in conjunction with a very narrow field of view planetary camera sensor and magnify using a 2x Barlow lens. This allows me to get pretty decent images www.flickr.com/photos/franks_astrophotography/albums/72157594300479840/
If the S50 had this setup then you simply wouldn't be able to shoot anything else OTHER than the planets. You'd only fit a tiny part of any deep sky object in the frame and even the Moon, it would just be a small portion of the surface.
So they way to look at it is, the S50 offers a decently deep field of view that allows beginners to capture a great mix of all the bright deep sky objects of varying sizes which means practically endless targets to choose. Hopefully with some software updates Seestar will implement a mosaic feature that will allow you to fit the biggest areas like Andromeda or The Veil nebula entirely in the frame. There are other smart scopes that have a wider field of view, for example the Dwarf2. While you can fit more sky in the frame, most objects look small in comparison to the FOV (field of view) of the S50. But, there are pros and cons to every piece of gear.
Thanks again for your comment. I think it's easy for us old dogs to just assume people know some of this and I must point it out in future videos.
Clear Skies and keep lookin' up!
Apparently you haven't worked out that telescopes for imaging planets must have a completely different design than telescopes for Deep Space Objects. You are a person who wants "everything and now". However, it doesn't work that way because the laws of optics are above your egoistic demands. There is no telescope that can image the planets well and also DSO at the same time.
You probably haven't figured out that telescopes for imaging planets must have a completely different design than telescopes for Deep Space Objects. You are a person who wants "everything and now". However, it doesn't work that way because the laws of optics are above your egoistic demands. There is no telescope that can image planets and DSOs well at the same time.
So much rambling. I got one because I had back surgery and wasn’t allowed to move my giant mount or 12” SCT onto it for a few months. It’s great!
Hope your back is better. I've a 16" Dob that I had to come up with a way to make it compact/easy to move (into the car and to the dark sites). Same with the old EQ mount for my photo setup.
Having the 'run and gun' option is always nice and especially when you're physically prevented.
Great review, what was the shipping time for you to Ireland? In Dublin myself and thinking about getting one.
Hey. I was sent the unit by ZWO from one of their German sellers and it took a week or so.
Stephen in K-Tec Telescopes here in Dublin has them in stock
ktectelescopes.ie/collections/zwo-mounts/products/zwo-seestar-s50-all-in-one-smart-apo-refractor-telescope
Presumably you'd get it in a day or two from him.
@ktectelescopesireland3777
@@StargazerMan cheers for the reply mate, yeah was looking at ktec bought stuff off Stephen before sound lad and horizon, it's 460 quid to buy direct from zwo but nearly 800 from all European sellers, might just bite the bullet and wait the longer delivery time buying direct for half the price.
I'll see if I can get a referral discount for you. Give me a few days.
@@StargazerMan cheers man appreciate that👍
Subbing because of the NOFX shirt
Great review. I am buying one and subscribed.
Thanks! Appreciate the feedback. Make sure you use my affiliate link 😎. There's no cost to you and it really helps the channel grow.
How much for option 2 in accessories and posting to Dublin? Just received my Seestar yesterday. Thanks👍
Nice one. I'll tell my young lad and he can price it for you!
@@StargazerMan lovely stuff thanks
Hey! Sorry for the delay. We were away for a few weeks. He's added the listing now to eBay - hopefully you can see it there. Shout if I need to change anything.
www.ebay.ie/itm/116288215683?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=5282-175127-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
The BIGGEST BENEFIT of the Seestar is the wifi connection. I can lay on my warm comfy bed viewing the universe while my telescope is outside in the cold. No more freezing toes and hands.
I'd love to support your son's school project. I'm in the UK, what would be the costs and postage? (Option 3)
Oh that's amazing. He's going to price it up!
Hi Alex. Thanks for your patience. He's finally got the listing up on eBay. :-) I've added some context to the description and also some images to support. He's batch printed a bunch and changed the options a bit so this now includes a Bahtinov mask. Shout if you'd like to change anything around or if you feel the price is off. Thanks!
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116288340195?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=paTYM4H9QEO&sssrc=2524149&ssuid=paTYM4H9QEO&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Love the shirt.
Hi
What’s the difference between the star spiker “cross-hair “ mask and the Bahtinov mask?
Thankyou
The star spikers add spikes to the bright stars. The Bahtinov mask is for achieving perfect focus.
@@StargazerManok thankyou. Re the Bahtinov mask, do you just pop it on and away you go or do you need to do something on the S50 app first?
TIA 👍🏼
@gilessmithson6057 sure! So you point your Seestar at a bright star. Do an automatic focus. Then pop on the mask. If the defraction pattern forms a perfect intersection it's in perfect focus. If they are out then you can switch to manual focusing on the Seestar and move in and out until the lines intersect perfectly.
@@StargazerManThankyou. Looks like my S50 is in perfect focus without any adjustment. Is there any way I can show you a snapshot photo please?
Sure. You can send it to frankryanjr@gmail.com
Would you recommend for a 10 year old complete beginner into astronomy wanting to capture images herself and share.
I would say that's too young. The setup and operating needs an adult to teach how to do. I use supervised with my Son (15).
There doesn’t appear to be any of the 3D Printed Seestar S50 Accessories available? Can you say when they will be back in stock?
My Son's school project! He's ordered more filament due this week. I'll ping you here when he's a set printed 🙂
@@StargazerManhi just wondering if a new set am has been 3D printed?
I’ve just taken delivery of my S50 😊
@gilessmithson6057 stargazerman.etsy.com/listing/1763556528
He's listed the new batch now. Thanks!
@@StargazerManJust ordered! Thankyou!
Im really not interested in taking pictures but would this work the same for nights also
I’m interested in your son’s option 1. Can you tele me how order?
Hi. sorry for the delay! We were away for a few days. He's set up the listing now on eBay for the shield if that suits you? We can edit/change it to whatever country you are in etc.
UK: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116288136110
USA: www.ebay.com/itm/116288136110
Just ordered an Seestar S 50 from ZWO. Paid on Credit card but then rang up wanting another £106 for customs. I live in UK is this normal or is it a scam ?
Yeah if you order direct from them and your in the UK then there is a customs charge. If you order through a UK retailer then the charges are included. Curious they they called you, I've not heard of that before. Did you order using one of the affiliate links I have in the description or somewhere else?
So in your personal opinion-which do you think is better, the ZWO Seestar 50 or the dwarf 2?
I think they are 2 very different scopes! It comes down to what do you mostly want to use it for / achieve. I've seen some comparison videos that give a sense of what each are good at bit I this unfair for example to say one is 'better' than the other when it comes to things that are subject to the users taste.
For example, the D2 has a wider Fov so this suits people that are after that aspect, if you are looking for narrower Fov then S50 is for you, one isn't better than the other, they are just different.
As in, a zoom lens is different to a wide field lens.
I think I need to make a comparison video!!!
Shipping to Europe? Any experience?
Hey! I've not heard of any issues with shipping to Europe. You'd just need to check what if any customs charge you might have in your location. There are some shops that sell in Europe and the price reflects this.
🔭 ZWO Seestar S50 🔭
🌏 Direct from manufacturer
👉 ZWO Seestar: collabs.shop/wlovks
🌏 European Union
👉 AstroShop: www.astroshop.eu/telescopes/zwo-smart-telescope-ap-50-250-seestar-s50/p,78688?affiliate_id=STARGAZERMAN
I can’t believe I spent around £3000 on the Unisteller EVscope when this thing seems better for around £500! Does anyone have the Dwarf 3 yet? And is it a good upgrade?
Hi Adam. The D3 hasn't shipped yet (and as far as I know only a select number of people outside of Dwarf Lab have been beta testing).
Someone, please explain to me how the S50 can show DSO without magnification. How is it done with filters, Sensor IMX462, and an Apochromatic triplet lens?
Hey.
In astronomy, especially when observing deep sky objects (DSOs) like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, the key factor that determines the quality of your observations and images is not magnification, but rather light gathering. Here's why:
**Faintness of Deep Sky Objects**
DSOs are incredibly faint and often emit very little light compared to objects within our solar system, like planets or the Moon. The light they do emit has often traveled millions or even billions of light-years to reach us. By the time it gets here, it's extremely dim. To see these objects, your telescope needs to gather as much of this faint light as possible.
**Light Gathering Power**
The light-gathering power of a telescope is primarily determined by the diameter of its aperture (the main lens or mirror). The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can collect. This is why telescopes are often characterized by their aperture size - a larger aperture means the telescope can gather more light and thus reveal fainter objects.
This light-gathering ability is crucial for DSOs because they often require the collection of every photon available to be seen or photographed. A telescope with a larger aperture can collect more photons over the same period, making faint objects appear brighter and more detailed in the eyepiece or on a sensor.
**Magnification: A Secondary Concern**
Magnification only enlarges the image created by the telescope. While this can be useful for observing details on brighter objects (like the planets or the Moon), increasing magnification on faint DSOs can actually make them harder to see. This is because as you magnify an image, you spread the light over a larger area, effectively dimming the image.
For DSOs, high magnification can make an already faint object almost impossible to detect because it reduces the surface brightness of the object. If the telescope hasn’t gathered enough light to begin with, no amount of magnification will make a faint object clearer.
**Contrast and Detail**
More light not only makes objects appear brighter, but it also increases contrast and reveals more detail. For example, in astrophotography, longer exposures (or image stacking) allow the telescope's sensor to collect more light, which can reveal subtle structures in nebulae or the faint spiral arms of a distant galaxy that would otherwise be invisible.
**Wide Field of View**
A telescope designed with a focus on light gathering rather than magnification often provides a wider field of view. This is particularly advantageous for DSOs because many of them, such as the Andromeda Galaxy or the Orion Nebula, cover large areas of the sky. A wide field of view allows you to see these objects in their entirety, rather than just a small, magnified portion.
When it comes to observing DSOs, the ability to gather light is far more important than magnification. Light gathering allows you to detect faint objects, increase their contrast, and see more detail, whereas excessive magnification without sufficient light can make objects appear dimmer and less detailed. Therefore, astronomers prioritize telescopes with large apertures that maximize light gathering, allowing them to explore the depths of the universe effectively.
The Seestar S50, like many modern smart telescopes, prioritizes light gathering over traditional magnification to observe and capture images of Deep Sky Objects (DSOs). Here’s how the Seestar specifically addresses the importance of light gathering:
### 1. **Aperture and Light Gathering**
The Seestar S50 has a modest aperture size (generally around 50mm), which is not large compared to more traditional, high-end telescopes. However, it compensates for this smaller aperture by using a high-quality apochromatic triplet lens and a highly sensitive image sensor (Sony IMX462) optimized for low-light conditions. The design ensures that the light collected is used as efficiently as possible, reducing optical aberrations and maximizing the clarity of the images.
### 2. **Optimized for Low Light**
The IMX462 sensor in the Seestar S50 is particularly effective at gathering light in low-light environments, which is crucial for observing DSOs. The sensor’s ability to capture more light in shorter exposure times allows the Seestar to provide clear images of faint objects without the need for extensive manual adjustment or tracking that traditional telescopes might require.
### 3. **Image Stacking and Processing**
One of the key features of the Seestar S50 is its ability to use image stacking and advanced processing to enhance the images of DSOs. The telescope captures multiple short-exposure images and then uses software to combine these images. This process, known as stacking, effectively increases the amount of light gathered by summing the light from each exposure, resulting in a final image that reveals much more detail than any single exposure would.
This technique is particularly important for DSOs, which can be too faint to observe clearly with just a single exposure. By increasing the effective light gathering through stacking, the Seestar S50 can produce bright, detailed images of DSOs without relying on traditional magnification.
### 4. **Use of Filters**
The Seestar S50 also uses filters to selectively enhance the light from specific types of DSOs. For example, filters that isolate the wavelengths of light emitted by nebulae (like Hydrogen-alpha) can improve the contrast and visibility of these objects against the background sky. This filtering process further enhances the telescope’s light-gathering capability, making faint details more visible.
### 5. **Integrated Approach Over Magnification**
Instead of focusing on magnifying the image, the Seestar S50 integrates its optical, sensor, and software capabilities to optimize the light it gathers. This allows users to see DSOs with greater clarity and detail without needing to rely on high magnification, which, as mentioned earlier, would only reduce the surface brightness of faint objects.
### Conclusion
For the Seestar S50, the emphasis on light gathering rather than magnification is what allows it to effectively capture DSOs. By optimizing its optics, sensor sensitivity, and leveraging advanced image processing, the Seestar S50 can provide clear and detailed images of faint celestial objects, making it an accessible and powerful tool for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers. This approach aligns perfectly with the principles of modern astronomy, where capturing more light is key to revealing the wonders of the universe.
Instead of all these unnecessary levelers, just use an adjustable table what resin model users use. They are Cheap as chips. Then calibrate the Seestar on it. Install included tripod, place on a flat surface outside or use the same table you calibrated it on and you're good to go.
I have the seestar for around 7 months and only calibrate the level once lol its not necessary with eq mode
I've yet to image using it in EQ mode.
Have some targets planned this winter season that will benefit from the fixed orientation. Looking forward to giving it a go.
i was saving money to buy a telescope
i think this is my choice
i saved rn up to 130 usd
It's a great start into the hobby. Not visual but you do get to 'see' what's out there on your phone screen and get to make cool photos! There is a new model just about to be released. Hit subscribe as I'm going to be reviewing it.
For the gatekeepers, just ask to see their horse & buggy.
Thank you for your informative RUclips video.
I am thinking of ordering a Bahtinov Mask for the SeeStar S50 - will it improve focusing?
Thanks! So the mask helps to manually adjust which allows you to get precise focus. It's not that the S50 doesn't have a perfectly good autofocuser, it's just us astrophotographers use a Bahtinov mask for focusing because it provides a highly accurate and reliable manual method for achieving precise focus, which can sometimes be challenging for electronic focusing systems alone. Here are a few reasons why a Bahtinov mask is preferred by many:
1. Precision in Focus
The Bahtinov mask produces a diffraction pattern when placed over the telescope’s objective lens or aperture. This pattern consists of three intersecting lines (spikes) that shift as you adjust the focus. When the middle spike is perfectly centered between the other two, it confirms precise focus. This level of visual feedback allows for very fine focus adjustments, often more accurate than relying solely on autofocus algorithms, especially in low-light conditions like astrophotography.
2. Electronic Focusing Limitations
While modern autofocus systems are useful, they can struggle in the specific conditions of astrophotography. In deep sky imaging, stars are often faint, and autofocus systems may have difficulty locking onto a dim object or interpreting the right focus point in long exposures. Light from stars is different from the kinds of subjects autofocus systems are designed to handle, leading to errors or inefficiencies.
3. Manual Control
A Bahtinov mask allows for more direct control over focus. Even with advanced electronic focusers, astrophotographers often prefer to use the mask to make fine adjustments manually. This ensures that the focus is exactly where it needs to be, without depending on the algorithms of an autofocus system, which might not always work optimally in every scenario (e.g., changing temperature affecting focus or subtle atmospheric changes).
4. Temperature and Focus Drift
In astrophotography, telescopes are prone to focus drift due to temperature changes throughout the night. A Bahtinov mask makes it easy to periodically recheck and fine-tune the focus manually without relying on software or sensors that might not detect minute changes as accurately.
5. Cost and Simplicity
A Bahtinov mask is a low-cost, simple tool that can be used on any telescope without needing additional electronics. Some astrophotographers prefer the simplicity and reliability of this manual focusing method rather than investing in complex autofocus systems, which can be more expensive and introduce additional points of failure.
In summary, while electronic focusing is convenient, a Bahtinov mask provides a very high level of accuracy and consistency for astrophotographers, especially in challenging low-light conditions. Many prefer the combination of using both methods for maximum focusing precision.
Hope this helps! 🙂
Yes, personally, I find it does. Although the automatic focus is fine. I just like to have manual control that accounts for any changes in the focus as the night goes on.
🔭 3D Printed Seestar S50 Accessories 🔭
(My Son’s school project 😊)
👉 Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/StargazerMan
S50 Dew / Light Pollution Shield + 2 Star Spikers + Bahtinov Mask.
@@StargazerMan Thank you very much from your description.
Id love to see a planet actually called "Wobbly Blob" :)
Oh man, so would I! or Planet McPlanet Face.
I hesitate to buy a Seestar S50 for the fact that in the Netherlands the scope costs about 700 euro while buying it directly from ZWO it will cost about 520 euro including transport + VAT + import duties. At the other hand, if there is a problem with the product after some time you have a problem in repairing the product. Also the fact that it is expected that a successor of the S50 with improved specs in Fall 2024 will be released is a reason for doubting to buy the S50 now. However the price will be higher and the problem of the EU price level still stands. 😢
Question: Did you buy the scope directly from ZWO in China?
Hi. That is always the tricky choice. I usually accept the extra cost because you have an easy way to return if you have a problem with the item. This unit was sent to me by ZWO to review but it came from one of the suppliers in Germany within a few days.
Ja heel erg raar dat hij hier zo veel duurder is ik he ruik hem nu bijna 8 maanden en vind hem nog steeds fantastisch ben er heel blij mee en maakt astrophotografie stukken makkelijker
@@staphorst48 Ik heb inmiddels de knoop doorgehakt en de scope rechtstreeks bij ZWO besteld en deze is inmiddels onderweg naar mijn locatie. Het is een risico, weet ik, maar ook wel eens leuk om een bestelling rechtstreeks uit China te halen. Het transport via DHL verloopt goed en je wordt goed op de hoogte gehouden via mail updates. Verwacht de S50 donderslag a.s. dus ruim een week na bestelling wat reuze meevalt. Goed te horen dat je nog steeds enthousiast bent over de S50 want dat stelt mijn geduld wel op de proef!
Rodriguez Helen Thompson Richard Young Scott
Hernandez Edward Jones Robert Moore Linda
Less talk about "gatekeepers" vs novices would be better, concentrate on the subject 'One year on from release - does it live up to the hype?' amongst all the talk, you haven't answered the question..."does it live up to the hype"?
A fair comment! I'm still finding my feet with this RUclips lark so appreciate constructive feedback.
Indeed I did not answer the question. For what it's worth, I do believe it's lived up to the hype.