A participant at the Kitt Peak Observatory Night Observing Program examines the glittering night sky with binoculars. Credit: B. Foott/KPNO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA
Once again, we’ve scoured the astro-marketplace to find the finest, most practical, and most innovative products for Astronomy magazine’s Star Products, 2024 edition.
This collection of 35 items, in no particular order, offers a diverse selection. From tools tailored for visual observing to those crafted for astrophotography, there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re a novice or an expert.
1. Apertura Dobsonian Performance Upgrade Kits
These kits may be designed for Apertura telescopes, but they are suitable for similar-style Dobsonians across various brands. The kits are available for apertures ranging from 6 to 12 inches, in 2-inch increments. Each one features two pieces of flat black flocking material, strategically sized to fit perfectly around the primary mirror and opposite the secondary mirror to reduce stray light and enhance image contrast. The kit includes three collimation knobs to replace factory-installed screws (allowing manual adjustment of the secondary mirror alignment), and a Phillips head screwdriver. Apertura also includes three upgraded primary mirror collimation springs to maintain optimal mirror positioning.
$69.95–$89.95
www.highpointscientific.com
2. Apertura Easy Leveler
The Apertura Easy Leveler is a versatile tool designed for effortless and precise leveling in a variety of applications. While designed originally for the Seestar S50 smartscope, it also can be used for cameras and small telescopes atop any photographic tripod that uses 3/8″-16 screws. The Easy Leveler employs a three-bubble level indicator and built-in adjustment knobs for accurate alignment, ensuring that your gear is perfectly straight every time. This clever device features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to transport and install; its intuitive operation allows users to level equipment in less than 10 minutes.
$46.95
www.highpointscientific.com
3. Apertura Roll Easy Kit for Dobsonian Telescopes
Dobsonian telescope owners know their instruments can be difficult to move around due to their size and weight, but the Apertura Roll Easy Kit for Dobsonian Telescopes makes it simple. The kit includes three locking casters you attach to the base’s ground board with the included mounting plates. This lessens the work required to maneuver the instrument over various terrains. The durable construction ensures stability and protection during movement. With a straightforward installation and a secure fit, the Roll Easy Kit simplifies the process of transporting your telescope to and from observing sites.
$219.95
www.highpointscientific.com
4. Energizer UE30068 Power Bank
The internal batteries in smart telescopes and portable tracking mounts only last so long. But the Energizer UE30068 Power Bank, a compact powerhouse boasting an impressive 30,000 mAh capacity, is engineered to keep your equipment charged while on the move. Featuring dual USB-A ports and a USB-C Power Delivery port, it ensures broad compatibility and swift recharging. Its sleek design and compact build are highlighted by an LCD indicator for monitoring the power bank’s battery level, allowing real-time monitoring of the remaining battery capacity.
$59.99
www.energizerpowerpacks.com
5. Askar 120 APO Triplet Air-Spaced Refractor
Askar’s refractor is a precision-crafted telescope designed for discerning astronomers and astrophotographers. With its 4.7-inch aperture and apochromatic triplet objective lens, Askar’s 120 APO delivers stunningly sharp and color-corrected images. The air-spaced design reduces chromatic aberration to produce sharp, contrasty views of stars, planets, and deep-sky wonders. Its robust construction and high-quality optics make it a reliable instrument for both visual observation and astrophotography. The included accessories, such as the dual-speed focuser and sturdy mounting rings, enhance usability and stability. Overall, the Askar 120 APO offers exceptional performance and value for enthusiasts seeking top-tier optics.
$1,499
www.highpointscientific.com and www.sharpstar-optics.com
6. Astronomik 1.25″ UHC filter
Astronomik’s filter is a great addition for amateur astronomers seeking clear, high-contrast views of deep-sky objects. With a 11/4″ diameter, it threads into most standard eyepieces. Its Ultra High Contrast (UHC) design improves contrast by selectively blocking light pollution and other unwanted wavelengths while highlighting nebulae. Constructed with high-quality glass and multilayer coatings, it ensures minimal light scattering and maximum transmission, preserving image brightness and detail. Easy to install and compatible with various astrophotography setups, this filter reveals elusive celestial wonders with remarkable clarity and definition.
€83.19
www.highpointscientific.com and www.astronomik.com
7. Celestron Origin Intelligent Home Observatory
Celestron has simplified astrophotography further with features like the patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) optics and AI-driven image processing with Origin. Its fast 6-inch f/2.2 system and Sony IMX178 sensor deliver sharp, detailed images. The built-in StarSense technology automates setup and alignment in a matter of minutes. With the Origin app, users can easily navigate the night sky and capture images of celestial objects. It also supports livestreaming through the app, casting to your smart TV, remote operation, or scheduled imaging sessions. A built-in filter drawer provides optional filters that enhance views and mitigate light pollution. The system includes a NexStar Evolution mount and is portable and easy to assemble, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced amateurs.
$3,999
www.highpointscientific.com and www.celestron.com
8. The Space Store Sun Globe
This globe of the Sun offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of our solar system. Using images from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, this globe unveils the Sun’s active corona, revealing various phenomena like sunspots, prominences, and flares. Each composite image represents different ultraviolet wavelengths, depicted in shades of red, green, and blue. Crafted from durable plastic with a single seam, the globe includes a clear acrylic base that can also serve as a magnifying glass for close-up examination. Offering a unique perspective on solar activity, this globe is a must-have for space enthusiasts seeking to explore the dynamics of our home star.
$34.95
www.thespacestore.com
9. Celestron StarSense Autoguider
Celestron’s SSAG changes the game for visual observers and astrophotographers alike. Its patented technology swiftly aligns your telescope in about three minutes, eliminating the need for manual alignment. This accessory enhances pointing accuracy and simplifies autoguiding for sharp long-exposure images. With its onboard computer and sensitive CMOS sensor, it delivers exceptional guiding accuracy. The autoguider is compatible with newer Celestron mounts, offering flexibility in control options via PC or hand control. Advanced features like dithering and comet guiding to enhance imaging capabilities are expected to be available with future firmware updates.
$799.95
www.highpointscientific.com and www.celestron.com
10. Daystar’s Universal Solar Lens Filters (ULFs)
Observing and photographing the dynamic surface of the Sun is captivating, but safety is paramount in order to shield eyes and equipment from harmful radiation. Daystar’s Universal Solar Lens Filters (ULFs) offer an affordable entry into solar astronomy. They are available in six sizes for cameras, binoculars, and small telescopes, and will fit apertures up to 1.9 inches to 4.2 inches (50 mm to 109 mm). The filters come mounted in cardboard holders that fold up like cups to slide over the front of instruments. All meet ISO 12312–2 transmission standards. The ULFs produce orange-tinted views of the photosphere, allowing observers to follow the ever-changing sunspots.
$12.95–$39.95
www.daystarfilters.com
11. Pegasus Astro SmartEye
It may look like a typical 2-inch eyepiece at first, but the Pegasus Astro SmartEye is anything but typical. Inside, a Sony IMX533 color CMOS sensor collects light from whatever a telescope is aimed toward. Live stacking technology then generates a high-resolution 90° apparent-field-of-view display at the top of the eyepiece for viewing as you would a normal eyepiece. The SmartEye effectively turns a small telescope into a larger instrument by delivering vibrant images of targets that otherwise would be too faint to see with conventional eyepieces. It also can be used as an imager to record images and save to share with others later.
$1,500
www.highpointscientific.com and www.pegasusastro.com
12. DWARF 3 Smart Telescope by DwarfLab
DwarfLab’s latest creation, DWARF 3, is a compact dual-lens device with a unique folded optical design. It includes apochromatic lenses and a SONY IMX678 Starvis 2 sensor for sharp imaging. Available in a Classic and Deluxe edition, both feature an effortless setup via a smartphone app, with autofocus capability and customizable settings. The telescope offers options for JPEG, PNG, and raw FITS or TIFF file formats, exposure settings, and filter choices. It stacks images automatically and has a range of about 33 feet (10 meters) for remote operation. Despite its small aperture, it delivers impressive results for deep-sky imaging.
$499.00
www.highpointscientific.com and www.dwarflab.com
13. Explore Scientific FirstLight 152mm Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope
The 152mm Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is a high-quality instrument boasting a generous 6-inch aperture and a sophisticated Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design. This telescope delivers exceptional views of celestial objects with sharp, contrast-rich images. The EXOS2-GT equatorial mount supplies smooth and precise tracking for capturing stunning astronomical photographs or conducting detailed observations. The instrument’s lightweight yet sturdy construction makes it ideal for both backyard stargazing and on-the-go observing sessions. It is as great for exploring distant galaxies as it is for viewing planetary surfaces.
$749.99
www.explorescientific.com
14. Explore Scientific Galileoscope Refractor STEM Kit with Solar Filter
The Galileoscope Refractor STEM Kit containing a solar filter merges learning with excitement, offering a dynamic approach to solar observation. This educational kit combines the Galileoscope — a 50mm-diameter, 500mm-focal-length refractor — with a specially designed solar filter. With the filter securely attached, users can safely observe the Sun’s changing sunspots with remarkable clarity. The kit’s compact design and straightforward assembly make it accessible to novices, fostering a deeper understanding of our home star. Whether for classroom use or personal exploration, the Galileoscope with Solar Filter delivers an engaging and enlightening experience that ignites curiosity about the wonders of the cosmos. A tripod is available separately.
$83.95
www.explorescientific.com
15. iOptron HAE69 Dual AZ/EQ SWG Mount
iOptron’s mount is a robust and versatile equatorial mount designed to meet the needs of both astrophotographers and observers. With its high payload capacity and precise tracking capabilities, it provides a stable platform for capturing stunning images of celestial objects. Equipped with an advanced stepper-motor drive system and built-in GPS, the HAE69 ensures accurate alignment and automatic location of celestial targets. Its intuitive hand controller and integrated Wi-Fi module enable convenient remote operation and firmware updates. Whether imaging deep-sky wonders or planetary details, the iOptron HAE69 mount offers exceptional performance and reliability, making it a top choice for serious astrophotography enthusiasts.
$3,998
www.ioptron.com
16. Jackery 500Wh Portable Power Station
The Jackery 500Wh Portable Power Station is a reliable power source for all-night viewing sessions. With a 500-watt-hour lithium-ion battery, it provides ample energy to power all of your devices, such as a telescope mount, phone, laptop, camera, or any other piece of technology. Its compact and lightweight design makes it effortless to transport, while multiple charging options (including one AC outlet, two DC ports, one carport, and three USB-A ports) offer flexibility for different devices. The integrated LCD screen provides real-time battery status updates, ensuring peace of mind during extended outings.
$499
www.jackery.com
17. MallinCam SkyRaider DS10c
MallinCam has created a revolutionary deep-sky video camera. Thanks to innovative technology, it captures stunning live views of celestial objects in vibrant color and detail. The DS10c features a sensitive Sony IMX294 class 1 CMOS Industrial sensor and advanced image processing, delivering high-resolution images of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in real time. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to integrate with telescopes of all sizes, while the included software provides intuitive control and customization options. Whether for public outreach or personal exploration, the MallinCam SkyRaider DS10c offers a wonderful visual experience under the night sky.
$949.99
www.mallincam.net
18. Celestron SkyMaster Pro ED 20×80 Porro Binoculars
Celestron’s new and powerful binoculars offer superior optics for amateur astronomers. Featuring BaK-4 Porro prisms, ED glass, and XLT coatings, they provide clear, vivid images with minimal chromatic aberration. Their waterproof and nitrogen-filled design ensures performance in all weather conditions. Retractable eyecups, a diopter adjustment range of ±3, and tripod adaptability offer comfort and versatility for users. The binoculars accept standard 11/4″ eyepiece filters, which can help lessen light pollution while enhancing nebulae. Celestron’s high-quality ED glass and XLT coatings improve light transmission, delivering brighter, sharper images, especially in low-light conditions. Their field of view encompasses 3.4°, while eye relief is a reasonable 15.4mm.
$429.95
www.highpointscientific.com and www.celestron.com
19. The Space Store Mercury Globe
Experience Mercury like never before with the Space Store Mercury Globe. This vibrant 6-inch globe showcases the planet’s surface features in enhanced color. Crafted using imagery from NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft, this detailed globe highlights 211 planetary landmarks, including Antoniadi Dorsa and Raphael Crater. Perfect for astronomy enthusiasts, it’s made of durable plastic with a single seam between hemispheres, accompanied by a clear acrylic display base doubling as a magnifying glass. Each globe comes with an informational flyer, making it an indispensable addition to any space enthusiast’s collection. Dive into the mysteries of Mercury with this stunning depiction, offering both educational value and aesthetic appeal.
$34.95
www.thespacestore.com
20. Masuyama Series 53° Ortho Plössl Eyepieces
If you are looking for a do-it-all line of oculars, then Masuyama Series 53° Ortho Plössl Eyepieces are a great choice. Available in focal lengths ranging from 5mm to 30mm, these eyepieces use five fully multicoated elements arranged in three groups to create a 53° apparent field of view. By minimizing internal reflections and maximizing light transmission, each member in the series promises crisp views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. Whether you’re a casual stargazer or a seasoned amateur, the Masuyama Series 53° Ortho Plössl eyepieces deliver exceptional performance and represent excellent value for the investment.
$179–$189
www.astrohutech.store
21. OCOOPA UT2S Mini 5200mAh Hand Warmers
OCOOPA’s hand warmers boast a unique dual-piece design for extended use during cold nights. Just put one half in each side pocket for up to six hours of warmth. With three adjustable heat levels, users can tailor their comfort to suit different weather conditions. Rechargeable in just 90 minutes, the internal battery also serves as a power bank for external devices, enhancing their versatility. Whether for winter observing or just everyday convenience, these hand warmers deliver reliable warmth and practicality, making them an indispensable companion in colder climates.
$31.99
www.ocoopa.com
22. Pegasus Astro Indigo Filter Wheel
Another inventive tool is the Pegasus Astro Indigo Filter Wheel, a compact and versatile accessory designed for astrophotographers. This ingenious accessory facilitates effortless switching between seven different filters during imaging sessions. With its robust build, the wheel accommodates up to seven 2″ mounted or 50mm unmounted filters, offering diverse options for capturing breathtaking images. Its motorized mechanism guarantees accurate and dependable filter changes, while advanced functionalities ensure smooth integration with leading astrophotography software. Whether capturing deep-sky phenomena or intricate planetary features, the Indigo Filter Wheel provides convenience and versatility, catering to astrophotographers at every skill level.
$459.00
www.pegasusastro.com
23. Bresser Slider Binocular Mount with Tripod
For owners of large and heavy binoculars, the Bresser Slider Binocular Mount with Tripod offers stability and reduces fatigue during long nights under the stars. The mount includes adjustable rails, a cardanic mount head, and slip couplings, which allow for flexible positioning without touching the binoculars themselves. Wheelchair users may find it particularly convenient compared to traditional tripods because its patented design ensures smooth adjustments with minimal effort, supported by precise bearings and adjustable resistance. It supports binoculars up to 7.7 pounds (3.5 kg) and can be paired with Bresser’s own stainless-steel tripod or any heavy-duty tripod with a 3/8-inch central shaft, using the included adapter.
€999
www.bresser.de
24. The Space Store Cosmic Cliffs Button-Down Shirt
The Cosmic Cliffs Button-Down Shirt is a celestial-inspired fashion statement for astronomy enthusiasts. Featuring a captivating print of the James Webb Space Telescope’s famous “Cosmic Cliffs” portrait, it brings the wonders of the universe to your wardrobe. Whether you’re an astronomy aficionado or simply appreciate cosmic beauty, this soft and breathable button-down is a stylish way — with a touch of sophistication — to express your passion for the cosmos at casual outings or scientific gatherings.
$34.99
www.thespacestore.com
25. Reginato Supermaser 20″ f/3.4 Dobsonian
This 20-inch Dobsonian is a portable altazimuth telescope crafted entirely of metal. It features a quick-release truss system, allowing it to be easily disassembled into three parts. Despite its size, the heaviest component of the 20-inch model weighs only 46 pounds (21 kg), making it manageable for one person. Its steel frame and double-truss design guarantee exceptional stability and minimal vibration during use. Optics remain collimated even during transportation and assembly. And assembly is straightforward, without the need for tools. With high-quality optics, the Supermaser offers excellent performance for both deep-sky and planetary observations.
€13,000
www.reginatotelescopes.com
26. Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro
This recent addition to Sky-Watcher USA’s family of German equatorial mounts optimizes weight distribution over the mount’s center of gravity for precise slewing and guiding. Weighing 53 pounds (24 kg), it supports up to 77 pounds (35 kg) of instrument load. Its dual-format saddle fits both Losmandy-D and Vixen-style mounting bars. Integrated cable management prevents entanglement, with USB 3.0 and power ports provided. Controlled via Sky-Watcher’s SynScan GoTo hand paddle, it offers a database of over 42,000 objects. Each mount comes with two 22-pound (10 kg)counterweights. The CQ350 Pro can be paired with a heavy-duty steel field tripod and an illuminated polar-alignment scope, both sold separately.
$3,500
www.highpointscentific.com and www.skywatcherusa.com
27. Vixen XY Red Dot Finder II
Vixen offers an easy way to aim telescopes accurately. With its XY axis adjustment, the finder provides accurate alignment, letting users swiftly locate celestial quarries. Its red-dot reticle aids in pinpointing targets against the night sky without ruining night vision. The compact design attaches easily to most telescopes. The finder’s sturdy construction promises durability, while its lightweight nature adds convenience during transport and use. Overall, the Vixen XY Red Dot Finder II is a reliable accessory for stargazers who prefer to find targets by eye, the old-fashioned way.
$84.99
global.vixen.co.jp/en
28. Small Steps and Giant Leaps Playing Cards
These ingenious playing cards by graphic designer James Round celebrate humanity‘s journey into space with stunning artwork and informative details. Each card features iconic missions, astronauts, and spacecraft, capturing the spirit of exploration. The deck serves as both a captivating collectible and an educational tool, offering insights into space history with every hand dealt. The high quality of the cards promises durability for countless games and displays. These playing cards are a must-have for space enthusiasts, combining entertainment with a tribute to humankind’s greatest achievements.
29. QHY5III715C
The QHY5III715C color camera is an advanced 8.4-megapixel planetary imaging and autoguiding camera by QHYCCD. Featuring a Sony IMX715 CMOS sensor, it boasts a high spatial resolution of less than 1 arcsecond per pixel, ideal for planetary imaging. Operating at up to 42 frames per second (fps) in 8-bit mode or 23 fps in 16-bit mode, its 512MB DDR3 image buffer ensures no frame drops. Designed for 1¼” focusers with minimal back focus requirements, it doubles as an autoguider with standard ST-4 compatibility. Accessories include USB 3.2 Type-C and guiding cables, filter adapters, and a focus locking ring.
$199
www.qhyccd.com
30. The Dobson Factory Ultralight 16″ Dobsonian Telescope
This Dobsonian telescope combines portability with quality mirrors from Lightholder Optics, making it a stargazer’s dream. Weighing just under 50 pounds (22.7 kg), it’s remarkably easy to transport compared to traditional telescopes of similar aperture. The 16-inch primary mirror gathers an impressive amount of light, revealing intricate details of celestial objects with clarity. Its Dobsonian mount provides smooth, effortless movement, allowing for precise navigation of the night sky. The sturdy construction and quality materials inspire confidence in its durability. If you’re a seasoned deep-sky observer, this telescope offers breathtaking views and exceptional performance — a true gem for any stargazing adventure.
$2,695
www.sites.google.com/site/thedobsonfactory3
31. TAKAHASHI TPL Plössl Eyepieces
TAKAHASHI’s Plössl Eyepieces are precision-crafted optics that will improve your observing experience. Featuring a four-element design with high-quality glass, they deliver exceptional clarity, contrast, and edge-to-edge sharpness. With focal lengths ranging from 6mm to 50mm, they cater to a variety of magnification needs for both deep-sky and planetary observation. The ergonomic design makes for comfortable viewing sessions, even during long all-nighters. While they come at a premium price, their performance justifies the investment for serious astronomers. Overall, these eyepieces are a testament to Takahashi’s long history of commitment to optical excellence.
$185–$540
www.takahashiamerica.com
32. Starfield EDT115 f/7 Triplet APO
Starfield Optics has made this triplet APO ideal for wide-field imaging thanks to its triple-element multicoated objective lens with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass optics and robust GÉAR series accessories. It includes a 2.5″ rack-and-pinion dual-speed focuser for precise focusing and a retractable dew shield. Thanks to the standard camera angle rotator, it’s easy to frame objects without flex or focus position changes. Weighing 15 pounds (6.8 kg), the EDT115 is compatible with Vixen-style dovetail plates. It also includes heavy-duty rings and a handle designed to mount accessories. A soft case with die-cut foam and an optical test report are also provided.
$2,212
www.starfieldoptics.com
33. UniStellar Odyssey
The Odyssey revolutionizes smart telescopes by blending advanced tech and a user-friendly design. Its compact form incorporates a 3.35-inch f/3.9 Newtonian reflector with a 4.1-megapixel imaging sensor. The combination lets users take wonderful images of the cosmos with ease. Equipped with automated tracking and object identification, the Odyssey effortlessly guides viewers to celestial objects from the Moon to far-off galaxies. The telescope’s app interface provides an immersive experience, offering educational content and community engagement. While its price may be steep for beginners, the Odyssey’s performance validates the investment for enthusiasts who seek convenience and breathtaking results.
$2,499
www.unistellar.com
34. Stargeezer “Just One More Telescope” Sweatshirt
Stargeezer provides a cozy garment that captures the passion of amateur astronomers. Crafted from soft, high-quality fabric, it offers comfort during chilly stargazing nights or casual outings. Its humorous yet relatable slogan, “Just One More Telescope,” will resonate with telescope enthusiasts.
$39.95
www.stargeezerstuff.com
35. ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope
ZWO’s Seestar S50 combines portability and advanced features for effortless astrophotography at an exceptionally low price. Its compact design houses a high-quality 2-inch f/5 three-element apochromatic objective and a built-in color camera with a Sony IMX462 sensor. In operation, the system captures multiple 10-second exposures, which it then automatically stacks; you can view the result on your phone or tablet as it takes shape. Even after a few exposures, the chosen target slowly begins to evolve, a very cool sight. The Seestar S50 is an ideal telescope for a budding astrophotographer, whether as a stepping stone to higher-end gear or as an end goal in itself.
$499
www.zwoastro.com
