Compact Smart Telescope Review: Vaonis Vespera - Is It the Best?
The Vaonis Vespera Pro, set to be released in mid-2024, is poised to redefine the compact smart telescope market with its advanced imaging features and portability. This upgrade to the original Vaonis Vespera, released in 2022, promises to be a game-changer for astrophotography enthusiasts and serious astronomers focused on deep-sky objects.
### Key Features and Improvements
The Vespera Pro boasts a 50mm apochromatic refractor with a 250mm focal length and an f/5 focal ratio, optimised for sharp, high-contrast images. It incorporates built-in GoTo capability via an alt-azimuth mount with integrated Wi-Fi connectivity and the Singularity mobile app, enabling automated object location and remote control.
One of the standout features is the Vespera Pro's 12.5 MP camera sensor, an improvement over the original Vespera. This high-resolution sensor, combined with live autofocus and real-time image stacking, allows for the capture of clear, detailed images of faint nebulas and galaxies. The images are saved in RAW format, allowing for post-processing with advanced editing software.
The Vespera Pro weighs approximately 11 lbs (5 kg) and stands at 48cm (18.9 inches) tall, similar to the original Vespera. However, it boasts a larger storage capacity, longer battery life, and includes accessories such as a built-in dew heater and field flattener.
### Comparison with Other Smart Telescopes
The advanced image stacking and autofocus features give the Vespera Pro an edge in producing clear, detailed images of faint nebulas and galaxies, surpassing many beginner and intermediate smart telescopes that struggle with deep-sky clarity. However, it is not optimised for planetary observation, where other scopes with different optical designs may perform better for real-time visual viewing rather than long-exposure imaging.
The Vespera Pro retails at $2,499, about $1,000 more than the original Vespera. While it commands a premium price, reviewers note its value in providing one of the best image qualities and ease of use in its class. The lack of included accessories like a tripod might add to the overall investment cost, and the relatively short battery life could require supplementary gear for full convenience.
### Competitive Landscape
Compared to other smart telescopes aimed at beginners, the Vespera Pro suits users who prioritise imaging quality over casual visual observation or portability alone. Some alternatives include the Vespera and Vespera 2, Dwarf 2 and ZWO Seestar S50, Unistellar eVscope 2, and Unistellar eQuinox 2.
In conclusion, the Vaonis Vespera Pro distinguishes itself from other smart telescopes by focusing heavily on advanced astrophotography capabilities with automatic image enhancement and a portable design, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts prioritising deep-sky imaging quality and convenience over general casual observing or planetary detail.
[1] Vaonis. (2023). Vaonis Vespera Pro. Retrieved from [2] Sky & Telescope. (2023). Vaonis Vespera Pro Review. Retrieved from [3] Telescope.net. (2023). Vaonis Vespera Pro Review. Retrieved from [4] Astronomy Technology Today. (2023). Vaonis Vespera Pro: A New Portable Smart Telescope. Retrieved from
- The Vaonis Vespera Pro, scheduled for release in mid-2024, stands out with its advanced imaging features, moving the compact smart telescopes market towards a new standards, particularly for astrophotography enthusiasts and serious astronomers interested in deep-sky objects.
- Astrophotography with the Vespera Pro is facilitated by its high-resolution 12.5 MP camera sensor, live autofocus, real-time image stacking, and built-in GoTo capability, allowing users to capture clear, detailed images of distant nebulas and galaxies.
- The Vespera Pro's capabilities surpass many beginner and intermediate smart telescopes in producing clear images of faint celestial bodies, but is not optimized for planetary observation where other telescopes may perform better for real-time visual viewing.
