Celestron Started the year 2024 with a bang. They announced “Celestron Origin,” a new and one of the coolest telescopes ever so far. The telescope not only looks awesome but also is a combination of various technologies developed by the Celestron.
The telescope is designed keeping the demand in mind, and at the same time, they also tried to counter the competition. Whenever anyone gets interested in astronomy, they usually want to go towards astrophotography and click on those awesome-looking photos you see in your Instagram feed. Looks like the Celestron Origin will be the first choice of those people. Nowadays, AI is combined with almost everything; it was just a time when telescope manufacturers used AI in telescopes.
Details of Celestron Origin.
The Origin isn’t your grandpa’s telescope. The Origin is an all-in-one home observatory, sleek and compact, that blurs the lines between stargazing and astrophotography, making the universe’s wonders accessible to everyone.
The Celestron Origin uses RASA and StarSense technologies developed by the Celestron.
What is RASA?
The RASA is the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt astrograph. It was designed by Dave Rowe and Mark Ackermann and is a revolutionary optical design that has transformed the world of astrophotography. Unlike traditional telescopes, which often have long focal lengths and slow apertures, the RASA boasts a unique combination of a fast f/2.2 focal ratio and a wide field of view. This means it can gather light much more efficiently, allowing you to capture stunning images of faint deep-sky objects in a fraction of the time it would take with other telescopes.
The RASA is relatively small and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up. The RASA is designed for both experienced and beginner astrophotographers. Its simple design and intuitive operation make it a joy to use.
The RASA is a versatile telescope that is well-suited for a wide range of astrophotographers, from beginners to experienced amateurs. If you are looking to capture stunning images of deep-sky objects without the need for complex equipment or long exposure times, then the RASA is a perfect choice for you.
StarSense
It uses StarSense, so this telescope has no more alignment headaches. Forget the tedious manual setup! Celestron’s Starsense technology takes the wheel. Simply point the origin towards the sky, and its built-in brain finds its bearings, aligning itself with celestial precision. Let the tech handle the nitty-gritty while you settle in for your cosmic show.
The Origin app
Your smartphone is your cosmic control panel. The dedicated Origin App is your window to the universe. Imagine a planetarium at your fingertips, guiding you through constellations and hidden gems. With a tap, choose objects from curated lists or explore freely. The Origin captures stunning images, processed and stacked using AI algorithms, all in real-time on your phone. Share your cosmic conquests with the world; you’re a citizen scientist now.
The Origin does not have an eyepiece where you line up to see the object during Astro Gathering. Now Origin will give a live feed on the TV or phone so that all your friends and family can enjoy and observe the night sky together.
Origin is a portable system that doesn’t require external WiFi networks, so you can easily take it to remote, dark skies in any car. The optical tube, mount, and tripod are all easily assembled and disassembled without tools. Each component weighs less than 16 lb. Optional carrying cases are also available.
Celestron Origin Optical tube.
The optical tube is a RASA design. It has an aperture of 152 mm or around 6 inches. Its focal length is 335 mm, and its focal ratio is f/2.2. The optics are covered with Celestron’s Starbright XLT coatings. The weight of the optical tube is 10.6 lbs or around 4.8kg.
Celestron Origin Mount
The mount of the telescope is similar to the one used in the Celestron Evolution series. The alt-azimuth single-fork mount is very popular and known for pairing with some of the best telescopes sold by Celestron. The weight of the mount is 17 lbs or around 7.7 kg.
The tripod on which the mount sits weighs around 14 lbs or 6.35kg.
The total weight of the telescope assembly is 41.6 lbs or around 19kg.
Celestron Origin Imaging Sensor and Processor
Imaging Sensor
The Celestron Origin’s imaging capabilities are driven by a cutting-edge CMOS image sensor, the Sony IMX178LQJ, featuring a color-back-illuminated design. With a sensor size of 8.92mm (0.35″) diagonal, the pixel size is a mere 2.4μm x 2.4μm. This powerful sensor boasts 6.44 million effective pixels, arranged at a resolution of 3096 x 2080. The result is a remarkably detailed and vibrant capture of the night sky. The wide field of view, measuring 1.27° x 0.85°, ensures that users can explore and document expansive portions of the cosmos in a single frame, making the Celestron Origin a versatile and formidable tool for both amateur and seasoned astronomers alike.
Processor
The Celestron Origin boasts state-of-the-art integrated electronics, featuring a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B as its onboard computer. Leveraging the computing power of the Raspberry Pi 4, this telescope incorporates a versatile and reliable processing unit that enhances its functionality. The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is known for its impressive performance, offering users seamless control and data processing capabilities. With this integrated electronics setup, the Celestron Origin not only delivers exceptional optics and power but also leverages the capabilities of modern computing to provide an immersive and user-friendly stargazing experience. The integration of the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B further exemplifies Celestron’s commitment to merging cutting-edge technology with the timeless wonders of the cosmos.
Celestron Origin accessories
You do not need many accessories with this telescope, as it processes the images itself and autostacks every single photo clicked. Also, if you want to process the photos by yourself, you can attach a USB drive to this telescope and take all the raw photos it has taken.
Celestron Origin Battery
Powering the Celestron Origin is an advanced and efficient energy system. The telescope features an integrated LiFePO4 battery with a substantial capacity of 97.9 Wh. This robust battery ensures extended stargazing sessions, providing users with over 6 hours of continuous use on a single charge. Additionally, the Celestron Origin offers versatility through its power options. Users can conveniently charge the internal battery using a 12V DC adapter, or they can opt for continuous operation by connecting the telescope to an external AC power source. This dual-power capability enhances the telescope’s adaptability to various observing conditions, making it a reliable companion for astronomical pursuits in any setting.
Details & list of all items
Your Origin system comes complete with everything you need to become an instant astronomer:
- 6” RASA optical tube with integrated camera
- Origin single-fork-arm mount with internal lithium battery
- Built-in computer with cooling fans and WiFi
- Autofocus
- Dew prevention system with environmental sensor, dew heater ring, and dew shield
- Integrated filter drawer
- Full-height tripod
- Lens cap
- AC charger
Summary
| SPECIFICATIONS | DETAILS |
| Optical Design | Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph |
| Aperture | 152mm (5.98″) |
| Focal Length | 335mm (13.18″) |
| Focal Ratio | f/2.2 |
| CMOS Image Sensor | Sony IMX178LQJ, color, back-illuminated |
| Onboard Computer | Raspberry Pi 4 Model B |
| Mount | Computerized GoTo altazimuth mount |
| Optical Tube Weight | 10.6 lb (4.8 kg) |
| Mount Weight | 17 lb (7.7 kg) |
| Tripod Weight | 14 lb (6.35 kg) |
| Total Weight | 41.6 lb (18.87 kg) |
Celestron origin price
Overall, this telescope is going to be a game-changer in astronomy and astrophotography. Celestron has tried to bridge the gap between visual astronomy and astrophotography.
But the main question is: if it has so many advanced features, then it might be expensive, and you are right. The telescope is priced at around $3999.
The telescope will be available for sale in April 2024. You can check out the following website to buy the telescope.
If you are looking for some budget-friendly telescopes, then check out this article. If you want to learn more about the basics of telescopes and astronomy here. You can also find the most suitable telescope for you, with our telescope suggestion tool.
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