Smart Telescope Product Overview...

Celestron Origin

Celestron Origin, conceived in 2010 and introduced in early 2024, is described as an all-in-one "intelligent home observatory" that simplifies astrophotography and stargazing. The largest aperture smart telescope, its 152 mm Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) optical design, 335 mm focal length and f/2.2 focal ratio, is capable of capturing dim, deep-sky objects using shorter exposure times while its computerized GoTo alt-azimuth mount tracks and centers selected targets. And, with its integrated AI algorithms, Celestron says "The images you capture in seconds look better than what you'd see in the eyepiece of a much larger telescope under much darker skies."

StarSense technology automates the initialization process by scanning the night sky, using star patterns to align itself and auto focuses in less than two minutes. The Celestron Origin Powered by SkySafari™ app installed on your smartphone or tablet is your guide to the night sky and how you control the system and view images since there is no eyepiece. Launch compass mode in planetarium view, point your smart device toward the night sky and simply select the celestial object you'd like to view (best choices are highlighted). Tonight's Best is a list of recommended targets that are based on observation time and your location. Or, create a list of objects and schedule Origin to image them autonomously while you're otherwise occupied—like sleeping. A live feed is displayed when you select Camera View and the Start Imaging button initiates 10-second exposures that are automatically processed and displayed.

The Sony IMX178 color CMOS sensor is located at the front of the telescope tube instead of the rear. The image sensor's 6.44 megapixels, 3096 x 2080 resolution and 1.27° x 0.85° wide field of view are well suited for galaxies, nebulae and star clusters and produce "sharp images to the edge." It is also the only smart telescope that is field upgradeable.

AI algorithms stack and process each frame as it is captured in real time and also process the final stacked master. Celestron states that the Origin app is not generative AI so it doesn't attempt to colorize or otherwise add to the image. Instead, the applied process is comparable to the techniques used by experienced astroimagers. Controls are provided for manual image adjustment and, for those who prefer to manually post process their images, raw files are available. Shared image file formats are high resolution PNG for Android and compressed JPG for iOS.

Three accessories are available for Origin, two of which enhance its performance: A wedge transforms the alt-azimuth mount into an equatorial mount to eliminate object rotation around the field of view center point when exposure times exceed 25-30 seconds and especially for observations across the zenith. Or, combine the wedge with the Celestron StarSense Autoguider for 45 second or longer exposures.

A nebulae filter, optimized to complement Origin's f/2.2 fast optics, passes Hα-Hβ-OIII (656 nm, 486 nm and 496/501 nm, respectively) light wavelengths from emission nebulae like M8 Lagoon Nebula, M42 Orion Nebula, NGC 3372 Carina Nebula and NGC 7000 North America Nebula. At the same time, it blocks light pollution, resulting in greater image contrast and a darker background.

A padded telescope bag, constructed of a water-resistant outer shell, thick foam padding and soft inner lining, protects the telescope tube when transported or stored. Multiple zippers improve access.

The integrated drawer accepts 1.25 in. and 2 in. astroimaging filters. A dual purpose lens shade/dew shield is removable and dew is further mitigated by an automatically controlled heating ring in the front lens. Two fans pull air through wire mesh screened vents—one fan cools the optics while the second is used for the electronics. The 97.9 Wh battery powers Origin for 6+ hours. The assembled system including the tripod is 24 in. x 26 in. x 48 in. and weighs 41.6 lbs. Specifications are summarized below.

To learn more about the Celestron Origin and for updated information, visit the Celestron† website.