Vaonis Vespera II Comparison: Upgrades and Improvements Assessed
The Vaonis Vespera II, the latest addition to the Vaonis family, has been unveiled as an updated version of the original Vespera. Both telescopes share the same weight and dimensions (5 kg and 48 x 20 x 9 cm), but the Vespera II offers significant improvements in camera resolution and field of view.
The Vespera II boasts a higher camera resolution of 8.3 megapixels (3840 × 2160 pixels), which is over four times the megapixel count of the original Vespera. This enhanced resolution allows for much sharper and more detailed images. The Vespera II also utilises Live Mosaic Capture technology, which can combine multiple images to create a final image up to 24 megapixels, further enhancing image detail and coverage.
In terms of field of view (FOV), the Vespera II offers a native FOV of about 1.6° × 0.9°, which can be extended to approximately 3.2° × 1.8° using the mosaic mode. This expanded FOV makes the Vespera II more versatile for wide-sky observations and astrophotography.
While the original Vaonis Vespera had a smaller field of view, it featured a 2 MP resolution camera using a Sony IMX462 sensor and a pixel size of 2.9 μm. The Vespera II, on the other hand, employs a Sony IMX585 sensor, which ensures better image quality.
It's worth noting that the Vespera II is compatible with any regular camera tripod, but the cost of a tripod is not included in the retail price. Also, unlike the impression given by some descriptions and images, the Vespera II does not come with a tripod in the box.
The Vaonis Vespera II was released in January 2024, offering stargazing enthusiasts a more advanced and versatile option compared to the original Vespera. The Vespera Pro, released at the same time, offers even higher specifications but comes at a higher price point and includes a tripod.
[1] Vaonis, (2024). Vaonis Vespera II Product Page. [Online]. Available: https://www.vaonis.com/products/vespera-ii
[2] Stargazing: Life Beyond the Horizon, (2024). Vaonis Vespera II Review. [Online]. Available: https://www.stargazinglife.com/review/vaonis-vespera-ii/
[3] TechRadar, (2024). Vaonis Vespera II review: The ultimate portable telescope. [Online]. Available: https://www.techradar.com/reviews/vaonis-vespera-ii-review-the-ultimate-portable-telescope
[4] Sky & Telescope, (2024). Vaonis Vespera II: A New Generation of Portable Telescopes. [Online]. Available: https://www.skyandtelescope.com/equipment-reviews/vaonis-vespera-ii-a-new-generation-of-portable-telescopes/
- The Vespera II's Live Mosaic Capture technology and 8.3 megapixel camera resolution make it an excellent tool for astrophotography, allowing for detailed and expansive images.
- The Vespera II, with its improved specifications, is a smart telescope that is not only suitable for casual stargazing but also for those who are interested in astronomy and technology, such as smartphones and gadgets.
- The Vaonis Vespera II, being lighter and more compact than previous telescopes, can be easily mounted on regular camera tripods, making it an ideal gadget for stargazing enthusiasts on the go.
