Unistellar is embarking on a mission to captivate backyard astronomers with the launch of its next-generation AI telescope, the Odyssey Smart Telescope.
Unveiled at CES 2024 in Las Vegas, this latest innovation from Unistellar, based in Marseille and San Francisco, aims to transform stargazing for both seasoned astronomers and enthusiastic newcomers. The Odyssey telescope promises to bring the wonders of the cosmos into view from the comfort of home—even amidst urban light pollution.
“Now we are ready to unveil generation two,” said Franck Marchis, Unistellar's chief science officer, in a media interview.
With advancements in machine learning and AI, the Odyssey telescope effectively reduces light pollution in images, allowing users to explore celestial wonders without traveling to remote locations. My recent experience with Unistellar's eQuinox 2 telescope from my backyard confirmed this capability, enabling me to observe distant galaxies and nebulae.
The Odyssey series includes two models—the Odyssey and the Odyssey Pro—developed over more than two years. Marchis noted, “For the second generation, we learned that true democratization of astronomy requires making telescopes accessible for all. Users should be able to set it up straight from the box and start observing the night sky in minutes.”
Unistellar's journey began in January 2017, culminating in a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $2.5 million in November of that year. Although the initial plan projected eight months for development, it took nearly two years for the first product, the $4,899 eVscope 2, to launch in 2020, followed by the eQuinox 2 in early 2023.
With a global community of thousands of Unistellar users, enthusiasts can contribute to the company's Citizen Science Network. I witnessed the telescope’s capabilities firsthand, observing Arcturus—a red giant 36.7 light-years away—as well as the M3 cluster of stars, located 33.9 light-years from Earth.
Marchis emphasized the importance of spreading astronomical knowledge: “Space is the next frontier for human development, with more missions being planned. While not everyone can go to space, we can all participate by observing the wonders above us.”
One significant enhancement in the Odyssey Pro is the introduction of an eyepiece, allowing users to view images directly. While the standard Odyssey relies on a smartphone display, the Pro model offers the option of traditional viewing alongside app control.
“Unistellar's Odyssey marks a new era for smart telescopes, making the wonders of the universe accessible to all,” stated Laurent Marfisi, CEO and cofounder of Unistellar. “It enables users to explore outer space with ease and excitement.”
The Odyssey is built on two key technologies: Nikon High Precision Optics, which enables effortless astronomical observations, and Stellar Autofocus, a feature powered by an advanced algorithm and motorized sensor that maintains clarity during observation of celestial objects.
“This telescope represents the culmination of our vision, built on a foundation of technological advancement and community feedback,” Marchis explained.
The Odyssey also features Multi-Depth Technology, allowing seamless transitions from observing nearby planets to distant galaxies. Compact and lightweight at just 8.8 pounds, the telescope integrates with the Unistellar app, transforming smart devices into comprehensive celestial guides.
The Odyssey Pro boasts a Nikon eyepiece with enhanced resolution—4.1 megapixels compared to three megapixels on the standard edition. This provides users with flexibility in their viewing experience, whether through an eyepiece or a connected device.
“The goal has been to create a telescope that allows users to maximize their observing experience, even from within cities,” Marchis said. “Our advanced manufacturing aligns the mirror perfectly, so users can enjoy clear images right out of the box.”
Both models of the Odyssey are competitively priced: the standard version at $2,500 and the Pro at $4,000. Additionally, the limited-edition Odyssey Pro Red Edition, retailing at $4,500, showcases a striking red hue inspired by its innovative technology.
All models are currently available on Unistellar's website and through select resellers. The Odyssey will be featured with Nikon at CES 2024 from January 9 to 12 (LVCC booth, Central Hall #18724).
Unistellar has partnered with NASA and the SETI Institute to create an engaging citizen science program, where users are rewarded for their contributions. As noted in a March 2023 article in the journal Nature, participants can make discoveries and be part of ongoing scientific efforts.
“This is all part of the Unistellar ecosystem,” Marchis remarked. “We aim to ensure that citizen astronomers enjoy the sky without tedious adjustments, thanks to our onboard analysis capabilities.”
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