Anna
Updated :
You can absolutely carry your ODYSSEY or ODYSSEY Pro telescope as hand luggage when traveling by plane. Its size and backpack are generally compatible with the maximum cabin baggage dimensions allowed by most airlines (55 × 39 × 16 cm or 21.65 x 15 x 6.30 in).
In terms of weight, the telescope itself weighs 4 kg or 8.8 lbs, the tripod 2.06 kg or 4.5 lbs, and the backpack around 1.8 kg or 4 lbs, for a total of approximately 7.9 kg or 17.3 lbs. If your cabin baggage exceeds the airline weight limit, you can place the tripod in a checked suitcase and keep only the telescope and its backpack in the cabin, reducing the weight to about 5.8 kg or 11 lbs.
In addition, the ODYSSEY’s built-in battery has a capacity of less than 100 Wh, so it is allowed in the cabin, with no prior declaration or specific procedure required.
A few practical tips:
• Carry your telescope in the cabin to avoid shocks and temperature variations in the hold.
• Present it at security screening just like a laptop or a camera.
• If a security agent wants to inspect the telescope, explain that it is an astronomical instrument with a small lithium-ion battery under 100 Wh.
• It is not necessary to remove the battery, unless specifically instructed by security staff (very rare). Otherwise, you can easily unclip it.
• If in doubt, do not hesitate to contact your airline beforehand.
In short, there is no particular problem to expect when traveling with your Odyssey telescope: it is designed to be easily transported, even by plane!