Smart telescopes

Smart telescopes knowledge center

The best smart telescopes of 2025

Smart telescopes make stargazing unprecedentedly accessible. With one tap on your phone you start a session, take real astrophotos and share them immediately with family or friends. This makes astronomy something you experience together, in the garden, on vacation or under a dark sky.
Unsure which smart scope is right for you? Below is our concise shortlist of the best choices right now, plus what to look out for. That way you'll quickly and surely make a choice that's right for your goals.

Our favorites at a glance

• Best ‘all-rounder’ - Celestron Origin Mark II
  A “home observatory” in one system: very bright optics, sturdy mount and a mature app. Made for those who want top images without having to puzzle out individual parts.

• Best value for money – ZWO Seestar S50/Dwarf 3
  Performance, convenience and portability in one affordable package. Ideal if you want maximum fun and beautiful photos without a big budget.

• Best ultracompact – ZWO Seestar S30
  Small but capable. Thanks to smart processing and a modern sensor, it performs surprisingly large while fitting effortlessly into your backpack.

• Best for high resolution – Vaonis Vespera Pro
  User-friendly app, high-quality optics and smart panorama/mosaic features for remarkably detailed deep-sky images.

• Most versatile – DwarfLab DWARF 3
  Two different camera perspectives in one compact system. Suitable for deep-sky and landscapes or daytime wildlife.

Celestron Origin Mark II - why this is the “all-in-one” top model

Celestron combines decades of experience in optics and mounts with modern software to create a platform that above the typical smart scope beyond. Consider:

• Very bright imaging with fast astrograph optics (f/2 class) for short exposure times and lots of detail.

• Thoughtful hardware: solid foundation on proven Celestron technology, automatic alignment and accurate GoTo tracking.

• Integrated workflow: autofocus, smart image processing and a user-friendly app (developed in collaboration with a leading planetarium software partner) that controls everything seamlessly.

• Practical details that you appreciate in practice, such as an internal filter solution and provisions against dew.

This creates a smart telescope that feels like a compact observatory: you set it down, launch the app and get high-level images - without loose laptops, cables or complicated setup. Looking for the gold standard under smart scopes and budget plays a smaller role, then this is the reference model.

ZWO Seestar S50 - maximum experience for minimum effort

The ZWO Seestar S50 is the smart telescope that perfectly balances price, performance and ease of use.
ZWO has brought together its experience in high-performance astro cameras and Wi-Fi systems into one compact unit with 50 mm apochromatic optics, Sony IMX462 sensor and integrated duo band and dark filter.

Thanks to the automatic alignment, live stacking and intuitive app, you can take photos of the Moon, the Orion Nebula or the Andromeda Galaxy in minutes, without cables or settings.
The included tripod and solar filter also make it suitable for solar observation by day.

Whether you're taking your first steps in astrophotography or just want to explore the night sky, the Seestar S50 offers a surprisingly mature experience in a device that fits in your backpack.

ZWO Seestar S30 - compact, smart and always ready for action

The Seestar S30 is the lighter, faster brother of the S50. With a 30 mm triplet lens, Sony IMX662 STARVIS 2 sensor and a built-in AI processor, it gets stunning results from its small aperture.

The dual camera configuration (wide and tele) lets you switch effortlessly between panoramas and details.
Despite its mini size, the battery life remains six hours, sufficient for a complete observation session.

His greatest strength? Mobility. The S30 weighs barely a kilo and is set up in three minutes.
Perfect for travelers, campers and anyone who wants to “quickly” capture the night sky without the hassle of alignment or cables.

Vaonis Vespera Pro/Vespera II - top-class resolution in design form

With the Vespera Pro & Vespera II shows Vaonis why the brand is the pioneer of smart telescopes.
The quadruplet refractor with Sony IMX676 sensor (12.5 MP) delivers unmatched sharpness and contrast.
Unique are the patented features CovalENS and PerseverENS: panorama shots of multiple sky areas that are automatically merged, as well as multiple-night stacking for maximum signal-to-noise ratio.

Everything is controlled through the Singularity app, which acts as a planetarium, GoTo control and live imaging center.
The whisper-quiet Alt-Az motors and internal battery (up to 11 hours) allow you to enjoy an evening of observations without additional accessories.

The Vespera Pro is intended for those who puts quality above all else - the perfect compromise between design, technology and imaging power.

DwarfLab DWARF 3 - small size, big versatility

The DWARF 3 proves that compact doesn't mean sacrifice. This clever telescope combines two lenses, one telephoto and one wide-angle, with a Sony IMX678 sensor and an integrated AI chip for image processing.

Thanks to the EQ tracking mode the DWARF 3 can perform even longer exposures without field rotation, which is exceptional in this price range.
During the day, use it just as well for landscapes or bird watching: the software automatically recognizes and tracks subjects.

Weighing only one and a half pounds and with fully motorized focusing, the DWARF 3 is a true multitool For creative observers, by day and under the stars.

Software & controls - the power behind any smart telescope

The Seestar app - simplicity at its smartest

A smart telescope is only really smart thanks to its software, and ZWO has been able to do so with the Seestar app achieved exactly that.
After the success of the ASIAIR (the popular Wi-Fi control system for astrophotography), ZWO has translated that experience into an intuitive app that appeals to beginners and advanced users alike.

The app is available for iOS and Android and guides you step by step in connecting and aligning your telescope.
Once your Seestar is paired (and leveled, if necessary), you simply choose a mode:

• Stargazing - for the night sky, with automatic object recognition.

• Scenery - For daytime, for example, birds, mountains or landscapes.

A built-in guide “Tonight's Best” instantly shows which objects are currently highly visible from your location.
Those who prefer to look around on their own, use the SkyAtlas - a digital planetarium that lets you navigate the universe through your screen and select a target with a single tap.
The Seestar's smart electronics do the rest: tracking, exposure and stacking.

Thanks to automatic image processing and AI noise reduction, you get sharp, colorful images of star clusters, nebulae or the Moon in minutes.
In short: no cables, no alignment, no frustration - just results.

The Singularity app - effortless astrophotography

The Singularity app of Vaonis is the heart of the Vespera ecosystem.
After switching on, simply choose your location (manually or via GPS) and select an object.
The app displays a list of recommended goals, but also includes a entire database which is filterable by type, brightness and season.

Once selected, the telescope automatically focuses and displays a live image on your screen.
You can share the session with multiple users - ideal for family evenings or demonstrations.

The Vespera series stands out with two unique features:

• CovalENS - takes mosaic images of different sky regions and “stitches” them together into one high-resolution panorama.

• PerseverENS - combines data from multiple nights into one ultra-clean recording with minimal noise.

Together, they provide images previously achievable only with professional setups.

The DwarfLab app - overview and control

The corresponding DwarfLab app offers both a simple interface for beginners and advanced features for advanced users.
After startup, you point the telescope roughly up, start the autofocus, and the rest is automatic.
From the built-in object list, you select your target and the telescope immediately begins tracking and stacking.

The app also supports mosaic photography and AI noise reduction, so you can capture large nebulae or star fields in all their glory - directly on your smartphone or tablet.

Unistellar Odyssey & Odyssey Pro - citizen science in your backyard

The Odyssey series from Unistellar builds on the popular eVscope telescopes.
With a 84 mm mirror, f/3.8 speed and integrated autofocus (Stellar AutoFocus) these telescopes offer excellent brightness in a lightweight and portable design.
The built-in battery lasts all night.

The Unistellar app contains a comprehensive object catalog with GoTo functionality.
Through the function Deep Dark Technology the software automatically increases contrast in nebulae or galaxies - even in urban areas with light pollution.

A unique feature of Unistellar is their collaboration with NASA and SETI.
Users can use the Citizen Science program share data used for research on asteroids, exoplanets and comet passages.
Thus, you literally contribute to science with your observations.

Vaonis Hestia - simplicity without electronics

The Vaonis Hestia is a fresh interpretation of the smart scope: no motors or electronics, but smart use of your smartphone as a camera and computer.
The optical base contains a 30 mm six-lens system that delivers 25× magnification while the phone is perfectly aligned with the telescope via a mount.

With the Gravity app determine if the sky is clear enough, get live guidance on aiming and see the sky through your own camera.
A solar filter (included with the Solar and Ultimate packs) also makes the Hestia suitable for solar eclipses and diurnal observations.

The Hestia is ideal for those with a affordable and sustainable entry-level seeks in smart astronomy, without batteries, updates or wifi.

Smart telescopes - frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is a smart telescope?

A smart telescope you control with an app on your smartphone or tablet. Optics, tracking and camera are in one housing. As a result, setup is minimal: set up the tripod, turn it on, connect to the app, and you see and photograph the Sun (with filter), Moon, planets and deep-sky on your screen.

What is the “best” smart telescope?

There is no universal best model; it depends on your goals and budget. Popular choices include. ZWO Seestar (strong price-performance), Vaonis Vespera (II/Pro) (high resolution and panorama/multi-night functions) and Unistellar (digital eyepiece experience and citizen science). If you are looking for top-end with all the trimmings, look at Celestron Origin.

Are smart telescopes worth the money?

For whom without fuss wants to watch and photograph: yes. Instead of separate parts (mount, camera, laptop, power supply) you get a all-in-one system with user-friendly software. You'll be outside faster, make results sooner, and use the telescope more often as a result.

How does a smart telescope work?

Your telescope makes its own wifi network on. The app pairs, reads date/time/location (GPS), builds a sky model and sends GoTo and tracking on. The internal camera takes short shots that live are stacked; you see the result and save it in the app.

Is a smart telescope difficult to use?

No. Rather, they are designed for beginners and families: place tripod, turn on, connect and choose a target. The app guides you step-by-step; alignment and focusing are largely automatic.

What can you see with it?

A lot. Details on the moon,  Saturn's rings, Jupiter with cloud bands and moons, and numerous nebulae and galaxies (e.g., Orion Nebula, Andromeda). For Sunuse is always a safe sunscreen required.

How do I find objects?

The app displays lists such as Tonight's Best or a planetarium/SkyAtlas. You tap a target and the telescope aims, tracks and stacks automatic. Models of Unistellar also have a digital eyepiece For an immersive look.

How important is leveling?

Important. A flat, stable tripod helps internal alignment and improves GoTo accuracy. Most models have a dragonfly or software assistant to level.

Do I need internet for smart telescopes?

No. The telescope operates through its private wifi and does not require an Internet connection. Useful for camping or dark sky trips.

Where can I use smart telescopes?

Around the world. Download the app in advance and make sure your device has location access. After that, the system works offline via the internal Wi-Fi.

What accessories do I need?

At least one tripod (usually included). Optional: light pollution filters, dual-band/narrowband and a sunscreen (mandatory for the Sun). Always check the supplied content of your model.

Do I always need a tripod?

Yes. For accurate GoTo and stable imaging, a sturdy tripod essential. Note the thread: many smart scopes use 3/8″ (Seestar, Vespera), the DWARF 3 often 1/4″. Some systems (Origin, Unistellar) have a model specific tripod in the set.

Do I need an external battery?

Usually not. Almost all models have a internal battery (typically 4-10 hours). For multi-day trips, a powerbank convenient, but not required.

Can you use a smart telescope as a “regular” telescope with eyepieces?

In general no: you look through the screen. Exceptions such as Unistellar eVscope 2 / Odyssey Pro have a electronic eyepiece for a “through-the-telescope” experience.

Is a smart telescope suitable for astrophotography?

Yes, that's exactly the idea. The software does live stacking and noise reduction; additional features are available with some brands (e.g., panorama/mosaic or multi-night stacking). You can export the photos for further post-processing.

Best smart telescope for wildlife or daylight?

The DWARF 3 excels in daylight and nature photography thanks to two lenses (wide angle/tele), AI tracking and autofocus. Also Seestar has a Scenery mode. A higher tripod in wildlife is often more practical.

Can you view the Sun safely?

Yes, but only with an appropriate sunscreen that is mounted correctly. Without a filter you run irreparable damage on to eyes and equipment. Use only certified filters that go with your model.

Do the apps work on iOS and Android?

Yes. The apps from ZWO, Vaonis, Unistellar, Celestron and DwarfLab are available for free in the App Store and Google Play. Do check the minimum OS version for your device.

Do I necessarily need a smartphone or tablet?

Yes. All smart scopes are operated via a iOS/Android app. Some functions (such as manually entering coordinates) require a device with GPS.

Can I control manually?

Within the app, you can usually both manual movement as through database/GoTo work. Plate solving Helps correct and center automatically.

How do I pair my phone?

Turn on the telescope → open the app → connect to the wifi network of the telescope → follow the instructions. After that, you have full control.

Do they support multiple viewers at the same time?

Many models support follow along on multiple devices (e.g., Vaonis and Unistellar). One device is the “host” that controls; the rest watch live.

And my privacy?

The apps use default permissions (location, storage, wifi). Want details? Check out the privacy statement and terms of your brand.

How do I connect filters?

It varies by model. Sometimes via a internal filter in the system (Seestar/DWARF), sometimes with a external adapter, or through a filter tray (e.g., Origin). For Sun: always use the specific sunscreen of your model use.

Can my images contribute to science?

Yes, at Unistellar you can participate in Citizen Science (including in cooperation with SETI/NASA) for measurements of asteroids, exoplanets and more. Your observations then become part of real research.

Does light pollution have much impact?

Light pollution lowers contrast, but smart scopes handle this well via live stacking and (optional) light pollution filters. So you can also capture a surprising amount in the city.

Glossary of terms - Smart telescopes

Altitude-Azimuth mount (Alt-Az)

Mount that rotates in two right-angle axes: height (up/down) and azimuth (left/right). No pole alignment required, so ideal for beginners and quick setup.

Astrophotography

Photography of celestial bodies and phenomena (Moon, planets, nebulae, galaxies, also the Sun with filter). Thanks to modern sensors, software and mounts, this is more accessible than ever.

Auto-focus

Automatic focusing via software: the telescope measures the star diameter at different focus positions and chooses the minimum value → critical acuity.

Autonomous Field Detection (UniStellar).

Fully automatic alignment: the camera compares the image with an internal star chart and determines the exact position. Result: fast, precise GoTo and tracking.

Bahtinov mask

Focus aid with three diffraction spikes on a bright star. Where the lines intersect, you are perfectly in focus. Popular with astrophotographers.

Bluetooth

Short-range wireless for data traffic between devices. In smart scopes mainly used for auxiliary devices; main connection is usually via wifi.

Calibration frames

Auxiliary shots for cleaner images:

• Darks: remove hot pixels/fixed pattern noise.

• Bias: compensate for readout noise.

• Flats: equalize vignetting and dustiness.

Citizen Science (UniStellar)

Users can share data with, among others. SETI/NASA For real research (asteroids, exoplanets, comets, etc.). Your observations count.

CovalENS (Vaonis)

Panorama/mosaic mode: multiple fields will be automatically stitched into one large, sharp image - ideal for expansive nebulae or large objects.

Deep Dark Technology (UniStellar)

Software that light pollution suppressed and increases the contrast on your target. Useful in urban environments.

Enhanced Vision (UniStellar)

Live Stacking: short exposures add up continuously for more signal and less noise. The longer you look, the better the image.

Exposure Time.

How long the sensor collects light. Longer = brighter, but risk of overexposure, motion blur and more noise. Balance with opening and gain is crucial.

GoTo technology

Automatically drag and follow to an object. Alignment can be done via bright stars or plate solving (image is compared with star catalog) - which is usually the most accurate.

GPS

Satellite navigation for time and location. Helps the telescope calculate sky mechanics for correct GoTo and tracking.

Light pollution

Artificial light that brightens the sky and lowers contrast. Solutions: dual/narrowband filters, longer integration time and software-based noise reduction.

Megapixels

Number of pixels of the sensor. More MP = more detail/printability, but pixel size, noise and optics also determine image quality.

Nebula

Clouds of gas and dust:

• Emission mist: emits light (ionization).

• Reflection Nebula: reflected starlight, often blue.

• Dark mist: blocks background light, silhouette.

ND (Neutral Density) filter

Attenuated light for daylight scenes; not suitable for the Sun. For solar observation is always a certified sunscreen needed.

Optics

The system that collects and bundles light: refractor (lenses) or reflector (mirrors). Every design has trade-offs (chromatic aberration, coma, flatness, etc.).

PerseverENS (Vaonis)

Dates of multiple nights automatic combining → higher SNR, less noise and more faint details.

Reflector

Telescope with mirrors (e.g. Newton, SCT, RC). Advantage: lots of aperture for your money, no color error. Requires however collimation; fast systems often require coma correction.

Refractor

Telescope with lenses (doublet/triplet/quadruplet). High contrast, low maintenance. Cheaper models may color error show; APO optics and flattener solve that.

Resolution

Number of pixels per image (e.g., 1920×1080 or in MP). More resolution gives more detail and crop space, provided optics and seeing can handle it.

Sensor

Today's “movie”: determines among other things. size, pixelpitch, dynamic range and noise. At least as important as the optics for final quality.

Sky Atlas (ZWO)

Digital planetarium in ASIAIR/Seestar: browse the sky, choose a target and start GoTo/image capture directly from the map.

Smartphone-dedicated

Smart scope that calculates and photographs through your smartphone (such as Vaonis Hestia). Inexpensive and future-proof, but dependent on phone specifications.

Smart telescope

All-in-one telescope with optics, camera, tracking and app operation. Creates its own wifi, works anywhere and provides instantly shareable astrophotos.

Solar Eclipse.

Moon slides in front of the Sun. Always view/photograph alone with approved sunscreen; otherwise risk of permanent damage.

Solar Filter (Solar Filter)

Blocks >99.9% sunlight for secure observation/photography of the Sun. Indispensable for any sun photography.

Stacking

Multiple short shots combine to one low-noise image with more detail. Calibration frames (darks/bias/flats) further improve the result.

Tracking

The follow of a target to keep it centered. Alt-Az keeps it neatly in focus; for long exposures avoid rotation with EQ tracking or software correction.

Wifi

Local wireless network through which the telescope and your phone/tablet communicate. Internet is not necessary; the telescope makes a own access point.