Video

That's a Rigel Quikfinder. czcams.com/video/0p6_3Wgvyj4/video.htmlsi=sRXYUJc94P9hRBqE

@@StargazerMan Thank you very much

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!

Thanks! It's very encouraging to hear people find these videos useful. I've always relied on others opinions before making a commitment to buying gear and I think CZcams is a great resource for it. The D3 looks great and I can't wait to review it. If it's possible when you order to use one of my affiliate links that would really help the channel and my relationship with DwarfLab. Clear skies!

Thanks! Let us know how it works out

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.

I was skeptical when I first heard about it but the more I use it and the more I refine my processing workflow the more enjoyment I get from it. Clear skies!

Hi Bartłomiej! They are both in the same range yes including weight and load capacity. I have not had the chance to use the SAM to compare but you've made me think I defiantly should do this so it's now on my list. As soon as I get the SAM I'll do a review video and compare.

Hey! That tripod is this one: www.highpointscientific.com/sky-watcher-star-adventurer-tripod-s20555?rfsn=8126018.611dc4 And I also got the extender : www.highpointscientific.com/sky-watcher-star-adventurer-tripod-extension-s20565?rfsn=8126018.611dc4 for a total of $134 it's a fraction of what I paid for my Manfrotto one, plus I can use this with the AzGti tracker / Seestar. (or just use it as a lightweight / tripod for regular photos).

@@StargazerMan thank you sir!

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.

@baginatora Hi. So this is the list of what I use. (I've checked the MSM site for the best options in terms of 'bundles' ) At MINIMUM you need #1 & #2. I'd HIGHLY recommend using #3 between the Nomad and the ballhead as it makes lining up your shot so much easier and puts less stress on the rotator. #3 is great for rotating the camera to take each section of a panorama. Lastly, if you're in a climate when your lenses fog up because of Dew then the heater is a must. Hope this helps. #1 Starter Kit (NOMAD+Ballhead+ Calibrated Pointer) www.moveshootmove.com/products/msm-rotator-for-star-tracking-time-lapse-panorama-photography?aff=339 #2 Wedge www.moveshootmove.com/products/new-wedge?aff=339 #3 V Mount www.moveshootmove.com/products/z-v-platform-designed-with-alyn-wallace-preorder?aff=339 #4 360° Arca Swiss Panoramic Panning base www.moveshootmove.com/products/360-panoramic-panning-base?aff=339 #5 Dew Heater www.moveshootmove.com/products/dew-heater?aff=339

You're welcome! Sounds like fun times ahead.

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!

A fair comment! I'm still finding my feet with this CZcams 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.

I'll take a look. Hang tough.

Totally agree. These are only the beginning of what is possible or to come.

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.

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

💯

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 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.

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

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!

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).

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 LTA (the mirror, cell & tube) is 26.5Kg. The original MDF Lower Circular base & rocker box is 26Kg. So you can lift that Ok but it's big and bulky making it much harder and a nightmare to transport. The remake with MDF saves about 7Kg but the main reason for doing it was to make it easier to store and drive to my dark sky location. Here's some more info. flic.kr/s/aHsmWavACA

@@StargazerMan thank you very much, this info is not listed anywhere. I was hoping it will be little less, for me it is at the limit of what may be safe to move without risk injuring back. hmm...

Hey. We went in February

Hey. No. The system is compatible with the following scopes; GSO Dob 8"~16" bearing model. (Also branded as StellaLyra / Zhumell Z series) Aperura AD8" ~ AD16" Orion SkyLine Dob Series Spring tension model scopes like the Skywatcher/Meade Light Bridge are not compatible.

Thanks for replying!​@@StargazerMan

Thanks. Best of luck! Clear skies.

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'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.

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.

Hi Michael. What is the exact model Sony camera you have?

Thanks! I've downloaded Pixinsight and I'm planning on learning it but Siril is perfect for now.

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).

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!!!

I think I need to sit down an list out all the differences make a comparison video! Each have a different set of pros and cons. Although they are technically both 'smart scopes' I'm starting to think it's like comparing apples to oranges and what it comes down to is personal taste. When I look at the differences I can see each being a good fit for particular demographics. I do t think it's fair to immediately say one is 'better' than the other, but rather, which one better suits your personal needs. Right now I use both 50/50 for specific things but I get people will fork out for one so need to make a decision. You'll probably hear very biased opinion from single unit owners but being in the position of having both but wanting to offer a fair and full comparison I'd like to take some time to put that together. Sorry to not immediately say 'Oh go for X!' but I think you deciding on what you want to get out of the scope is the way to think about it, which I know is hard if someone is a newcomer.

Hey. No the EzGoto / PushTo isn't suitable for the Sky watcher flextube.

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👍

Thanks! Yes it's super fast and easy to reposition the scope.

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

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.