Samy
Updated :
On October 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse crossed the sky from Oregon to Texas. Capture taken with an EVSCOPE 2.
Check out our dedicated page to the eclipse: Great American Eclipse
Can UNISTELLAR telescopes track the sun through the total eclipse?
Yes. Since update 3.2 we have improved our Smart Star Finder technology for crescent-shaped objects (Moon and solar eclipses) and improved our Smart GotoSun technology for better tracking.
When should I start tracking the sun?
We are recommending to start tracking the Sun 5 minutes before the eclipse to ensure proper go-to and tracking.
How long can I observe the Sun with a UNISTELLAR telescope?
As with all electronic devices, UNISTELLAR telescopes can overheat when exposed to high temperatures for a long time. We recommend avoiding using your telescope in the Sun for more than 45 min in a row. You can take a break between observing sessions and place your telescope in the shade until it cools down.
How do I protect my UNISTELLAR telescope from the Sun?
- Make sure you use the official UNISTELLAR Smart Solar Filter while observing the Sun with your UNISTELLAR telescope.
- Consider using additional cooling methods such as insulating protection like a safety blanket.
- take a break between observing sessions and place your telescope in the shades until it cools down.
My telescope has been overheating. How long should I let my telescope cool down before observing the eclipse again?
An observation of the sun for more than 45 minutes can cause overheating of the system. If this occurs, the telescope will shut down as a safety measure and may require 10 minutes to cool down before it can be restarted properly.
Do I need to keep my filter on throughout the entire duration of the eclipse?
Yes, that's what we recommend for a 100% safe experience. The telescope adjusts the sensor sensitivity based on the progression of the eclipse.
During the total eclipse (the darkest moment), you can enjoy the view directly with your eyes to witness this unique phenomenon that lasts only a few minutes.
However, if you're accustomed to observing eclipses, you can remove your solar filter if you wish to capture images with the telescope. Damage to the sensor while observing the eclipse without the Smart Solar Filter will not be covered by the warranty
During totality, can I see the diamond ring effect and the solar corona with my telescope?
Yes, you might. However, the solar corona may extend beyond the field of view of the telescope. We recommend taking the opportunity to enjoy these unique few seconds with your naked eyes. The telescope is best used during partial phases of the eclipse.
How to record a video of the eclipse with the UNISTELLAR app?
At this time, it is not possible to record a video directly from the UNISTELLAR app, however, you can use built-in solutions on your iOS or Android devices to record the screen while observing.
Tutorial for iOS: Record the screen on your iPhone, iPad
Tutorial for Android: Record your screen on your Android device
Note that on the observation page of the UNISTELLAR app, you can hide the user interface while recording your screen (Observation Page Explained).
Can I remove the solar filter during totality?
Yes, it's possible, BUT make sure to have the Smart Solar Filter before and after totality.
Damage to the sensor while observing the eclipse without the Smart Solar Filter will not be covered by the warranty
When I attempt to download data that has been uploaded by my telescope in FITS, TIFF, or PNG format. Solar images I took are not provided. Is there a reason for these not to be included in the download?
No. The Enhanced Vision mode for the Sun is a live view mode - direct video, therefore, those images are not recorded in the memory. You can only save a PNG picture of your observation with the “take a picture” button.
Recommended articles: