Unistellar Odyssey Pro

Worth knowing before you buy

How does the Unistellar Odyssey Pro compare to other smart telescopes like Vespera or Seestar?

The Odyssey Pro is significantly more expensive ($4000-$5000) than competitors like the Vespera II ($1590) or Seestar S50 ($500), but offers a larger 114mm aperture and longer focal length for better planetary and deep-sky performance. However, members note it lacks the mosaic/wide-field capabilities of the Vespera and requires manual focus adjustment rather than autofocus like competitors.

Do I need a tracking mount to use these smart telescopes effectively?

For deep-sky objects, all smart telescopes require a tracking mount to stack multiple exposures effectively. Without tracking, you're limited to short exposures of bright objects like the Moon.

What is the actual real-time image quality through the electronic eyepiece?

Members who have used the electronic eyepiece (like on the Evscope 2) report it feels like looking at a small TV screen rather than through a traditional telescope, and the image is often less clear than what appears on a connected tablet or phone. Many prefer viewing stacked results on an external screen rather than through the eyepiece itself.

How long do the batteries last during observing sessions?

Battery life varies significantly by model and conditions. The Vespera and Seestar typically last 3-4 hours in cold temperatures (3-4°C), while the Vespera Pro offers up to 11 hours.

Can you use these scopes for planetary imaging?

All smart telescopes struggle with planetary imaging due to their small apertures and focal lengths—at best you can see Saturn's rings or Jupiter's bands with minimal detail. Members recommend getting a dedicated planetary scope instead, as physics cannot be overcome by software, though manufacturers are developing auto-stacking features to help.

How mature is the software, and are there ongoing updates?

The Vespera/Stellina software (Singularity app) is considered very mature with continuous improvements, while the Seestar's software was initially limited but improving. Members note that software development pace varies by manufacturer—Vaonis has been consistent with updates, while Dwarf Lab requires more tinkering from users and ZWO's promised 'pro version' remains unclear on pricing and release date.