ZWO has launched the Seestar S30 Plus, a compact, sub-$500 smart telescope designed for beginners to capture deep-sky objects and solar events.
Key facts
- •The Seestar S30 Plus is priced at $499.
- •The telescope weighs 3.64 lbs (1.65 kg) and measures 8.3 x 5.5 x 3.2 inches.
- •It features four-element apochromatic optics with extra-low dispersion glass.
- •The device includes a magnetic solar filter for safe solar imaging.
- •Users can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy, the Pleiades, and the North America Nebula.
ZWO has officially released the Seestar S30 Plus, a new all-in-one smart telescope aimed at hobbyists and beginners. The device, which replaces the discontinued Seestar S30, is available for purchase online through ZWO’s website and Amazon. Designed for portability and ease of use, the unit features upgraded optics and dual cameras to simplify the process of capturing, processing, and sharing astronomical images.
By the numbers
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
The Seestar S30 Plus retains a 30mm aperture and compact chassis while upgrading to four-element apochromatic optics with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass. It is equipped with two 3.7-megapixel cameras that produce 1,440 x 2,560-pixel images. The system includes a wide-angle camera with a 43.5-degree field of view, suitable for imaging the Milky Way, constellations, and star trails. For deep-sky astrophotography, the telescope features built-in filters, a mosaic mode, and equatorial tracking capabilities. A built-in dual-band filter is included to help reduce the effects of light pollution when imaging nebulas.
Design and Portability
Weighing 3.64 lbs (1.65 kg) and measuring 8.3 x 5.5 x 3.2 inches, the device is marketed as one of the most compact smart telescopes currently available. Its exterior features a matte white design with a single power button and a USB-C port. The telescope comes with a padded soft carry case, a small tripod, a removable shoulder strap, a 40-inch USB-A to USB-C charging cable, and a magnetic solar filter for safe solar photography and eclipse time-lapses. Including all accessories and the carry case, the total weight is 4.89 lbs (2.22 kg).
Software and Workflow
The Seestar app provides in-app post-processing options, allowing users to manage their images within a single workflow. Users also have the option to export data as lossless FITS files for external processing. The setup process is designed for simplicity, utilizing a power button and LED indicators to signal battery levels and operational status.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Space.com, Live Science.
