Dwarf 3 telescope: 27 days, 2,300 shots

Admit it — you’re curious. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer with $10,000 worth of gear or someone who’s always dreamed of finally getting into it, smart telescopes have opened up a whole new universe of possibilities for all of us.

So what happens if you point one at the stars for nearly 30 nights and snap over 2,000 photos? That's exactly what someone did using a DWRAF 3.

The DWARF 3 smart telescope is a portable, all-in-one astrophotography and observation device priced at $599 USD. Designed as a highly compact system comparable in size and weight to a standard dictionary, it provides functionality traditionally requiring much larger and more complex equipment. The DWARF 3 integrates upgraded optics, improved sensors, versatile imaging formats, and a simplified control system, making it a notable option for users interested in both astronomical and terrestrial photography.

Dwarf 3 telescope: Compact, automated astrophotography anywhere

The primary optical system of the DWARF 3 consists of a 35 mm aperture telephoto lens that utilizes an apochromatic design with multiple extra-low dispersion (ED) lens elements. This configuration is optimized to the diffraction limit, allowing detailed, high-contrast images across the field of view. The lens operates on a periscope mechanism, effectively doubling the light-gathering ability when compared to its predecessor, the DWARF 2. The focal length of the telephoto lens is 150 mm, producing an equivalent focal length of 737 mm. This increase in aperture and focal length enhances its capabilities for deep sky observation and imaging.

The wide-angle lens on the DWARF 3 offers a 3.4 mm aperture with a 6.7 mm focal length, yielding an equivalent focal length of 45 mm. This provides versatility for both wide-field astrophotography and daytime panoramic shots. Both lenses are paired with upgraded imaging sensors for improved performance.

The DWARF 3 incorporates the SONY IMX678 sensor with STARVIS 2 technology. This sensor represents a significant enhancement over the previous model’s SONY IMX415. With a 90.24% increase in pixel size, reaching 2 microns, the IMX678 delivers improved sensitivity, longer exposure potential, and reduced noise, particularly critical for low-light and astrophotography applications. The telescope uses an RGGB Bayer pattern for its astronomical image array.

A built-in filter system is integrated into the DWARF 3 to adapt to varying imaging conditions. The VIS filter covers the 430 to 650 nm range and is suited for daytime terrestrial photography. The Astro filter extends sensitivity into the infrared range up to 690 nm, optimizing it for low-light and deep sky imaging. The Dual-Band filter isolates key emission lines at OIII (500.7 nm), Hβ (486 nm), and Hα (656.3 nm), making it suitable for imaging emission nebulae while reducing the impact of moonlight and urban light pollution.

The DWARF 3 supports four image output formats: JPG, PNG, FITS, and TIFF. This range provides options for both casual users and those intending to conduct extensive post-processing of astronomical images. The device also features an integrated post-processing system known as Stellar Studio. This software simplifies deep sky image processing by enhancing contrast, color, shape definition, and sharpness without the need for external computer software.

For extended astrophotography sessions, the DWARF 3 introduces Mega Stack, a function designed to combine multiple shooting sessions. This process increases image clarity, reduces noise, and allows for high-resolution, long-exposure imaging sessions that produce superior results compared to single exposures.

The telescope operates through the DWARFLAB mobile application, which simplifies control and operation. Beginners can utilize one-click GOTO functionality, allowing the telescope to automatically align with selected targets. The app includes a built-in Sky Atlas and daily observation recommendations, streamlining target selection for both novice and experienced users.

Advanced features include an Astro Plan mode, enabling users to schedule automated imaging sessions. The telescope can capture images overnight without manual supervision, allowing observation to take place while the user is asleep or otherwise occupied. Imaging capabilities extend to solar and lunar mosaics, star trail photography, Milky Way imaging, and time-lapse sequences.

The DWARF 3 incorporates NFC connectivity, enabling rapid pairing with smartphones by simply placing the phone near the device's ring light area. The mobile app and accompanying instructions are available in ten languages, supporting accessibility for international users. An IP54 rating provides protection against dust, moisture, and dew, ensuring continued operation in various environmental conditions.

Beyond astrophotography, the DWARF 3 is designed for additional functions including bird watching and panoramic photography. Its dual-camera system offers automatic target identification, capture, and tracking. This feature is particularly useful for observing wildlife, as it can track and relocate targets if they move during observation. The Giga-Pixel Panorama mode allows users to create high-resolution panoramic images through AI-powered image stitching.

Comparatively, the DWARF 3 represents an upgrade over the DWARF 2 in several technical aspects. The aperture diameter for the telephoto lens has increased from 24 mm to 35 mm, and the focal length has increased from 100 mm to 150 mm. The equivalent focal length, which factors in the sensor size and optics, has also increased from 675 mm to 737 mm for the telephoto lens. The wide-angle lens maintains a similar equivalent focal length at 45 mm but with a slightly increased aperture of 3.4 mm compared to 2.8 mm on the previous model.

The DWARF 3's upgraded SONY IMX678 sensor provides improved sensitivity, noise reduction, and resolution. The built-in filters have been expanded from the basic IR Cut and IR Pass options on the DWARF 2 to the more advanced VIS, Astro, and Dual-Band filter system on the DWARF 3, enhancing versatility for both day and night imaging.

The battery system has also seen improvements. The DWARF 3 includes a built-in 10,000 mAh battery with external USB charging support, compared to the replaceable 5,600 mAh battery in the DWARF 2. Storage has been increased from a 64 GB Micro SD card to a built-in 128 GB eMMC drive, with support for expansion up to 512 GB.

Shooting modes have been expanded to include photo, video, astro, panorama, burst, and time-lapse for both telephoto and wide-angle lenses, whereas the DWARF 2 provided fewer modes with wide-angle functionality limited to photos. The Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in the DWARF 3 offers 5 TOPS of processing power, compared to 2 TOPS in the DWARF 2, providing more efficient image processing and AI functions.

Video resolution on the telephoto lens has been improved to 4K at 30 frames per second and 1080p at 60 frames per second. Wide-angle video capabilities have been added with 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second, a feature not present on the DWARF 2. Maximum exposure times in astro mode have been increased significantly, with up to 60 seconds for the telephoto lens and 90 seconds for the wide-angle lens, both when using the equatorial mode. The DWARF 2 allowed a maximum exposure time of only 15 seconds.

Additional features exclusive to the DWARF 3 include NFC one-touch connection, wide-angle astrophotography, and astro mosaic capabilities. Physical dimensions of the DWARF 3 are slightly larger than the DWARF 2, measuring 222 x 142 x 65 mm compared to 204 x 130 x 62 mm, while weight has increased modestly from 1.2 kg to 1.3 kg.

The DWARF 3 is currently available for order with a listed price of $599 USD. Shipping times are advertised as within one week of order placement, though international customers should be aware of potential import duties and taxes based on their country’s regulations.

The DWARF 3 smart telescope is positioned as an accessible, portable, and multifunctional imaging device for both amateur and more experienced users. Its combination of upgraded optics, sensors, imaging modes, automated features, and compact form factor provides an option for users seeking a streamlined approach to astrophotography and terrestrial observation without the complexity of traditional telescope systems. The price reflects its position as an all-in-one solution, consolidating a wide range of functions typically requiring multiple pieces of equipment into a single, portable unit.

Dwarf 3 27 Days 2300 Images Infinite Passion

Dwarf 3 smart telesecope specifications

• Price: $599 USD
• Shipping: Ships within 1 week of order; international buyers may incur additional import duties or taxes
• Size: 8.74 x 5.59 x 2.56 inches (222 x 142 x 65 mm)
• Weight: 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg)
• Optical System: 35 mm (1.38 inch) telephoto apochromatic lens with extra-low dispersion glass
• Focal Length (Telephoto): 150 mm (5.91 inches)
• Equivalent Focal Length (Telephoto): 737 mm (29 inches)
• Wide-Angle Lens: 3.4 mm (0.13 inch) aperture with 6.7 mm (0.26 inch) focal length
• Equivalent Focal Length (Wide): 45 mm (1.77 inches)
• Light-Gathering Capacity: Doubled compared to DWARF 2 model
• Sensor: SONY IMX678 STARVIS 2 with 2.0 µm pixel size
• Built-in Filters (Telephoto): VIS (430-650 nm) for daytime use, Astro (430-690 nm) for astronomy, Dual-Band for OIII (500.7 nm), Hβ (486 nm), and Hα (656.3 nm) emission lines
• Wide-Angle Filter: Astro filter for day and night use
• Image Output Formats: JPG, PNG, FITS, and TIFF
• Built-in Processing: Stellar Studio for deep sky image enhancement without external software
• Stacking Function: Mega Stack combines multiple sessions for improved clarity and reduced noise
• Shooting Modes: Photo, Video, Astro, Panorama, Burst, and Timelapse, all available for both telephoto and wide-angle lenses
• Neural Processing Unit: 5 TOPS computing power for AI functions
• Telephoto Video Resolution: 4K at 30 frames per second, 1080p at 60 frames per second
• Telephoto Picture Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Wide-Angle Video Resolution: 1080p at 30 frames per second
• Wide-Angle Picture Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Maximum Exposure Time (Astro Mode): 60 seconds telephoto, 90 seconds wide-angle (with equatorial mode enabled)
• Connection: NFC one-touch smartphone connection
• Battery: Built-in 10,000 mAh rechargeable battery with external USB charging support
• Storage: 128 GB internal eMMC drive included, expandable up to 512 GB
• Environmental Protection: IP54 rated for dust, moisture, and dew resistance
• App Languages: 10 available, including English and French
• Mobile App Features: One-tap shooting, daily recommended targets, automated GOTO alignment, Astro Plan for scheduled imaging
• Additional Functions: Solar and lunar mosaics, star trail photography, Milky Way imaging, timelapse, bird tracking with auto-recapture, and AI-powered panoramic image stitching
• Birding and Panorama Features: Dual-camera system for automatic target identification and tracking, gigapixel panorama mode for large landscape imaging
• DWARF 2 Comparison:
• Previous telephoto aperture: 24 mm (0.94 inch), current DWARF 3 is 35 mm (1.38 inch)
• Previous focal length: 100 mm (3.94 inch), current is 150 mm (5.91 inch)
• Previous equivalent focal length: 675 mm (26.57 inch), current is 737 mm (29 inch)
• Previous sensor: SONY IMX415 STARVIS 2, now upgraded to IMX678
• Previous battery: Replaceable 5600 mAh, now 10,000 mAh built-in
• Previous storage: 64 GB Micro SD, now 128 GB internal, expandable
• Previous max exposure time: 15 seconds, now 60 seconds telephoto and 90 seconds wide-angle
• Previous weight: 2.65 lbs (1.2 kg), current is 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg)
   

Seestar S30 vs Dwarf 3 - A quick head-to-head comparison

Lukomatico does a quick head-to-head comparison of the Seestar S30 vs Dwarf 3

Lukomatico conducted a practical, direct comparison between the Seestar S30 and the DWARF 3 smart telescopes to evaluate their performance under identical conditions. Both telescopes were set up on the same night, targeting the same region of space, specifically the Sadr area, which includes the well-known Butterfly Nebula. The purpose of this test was to examine both the user experience and image output quality using the built-in dual-band filters of these telescopes. Although both devices are relatively new to the market, recent software updates have improved their features and usability, making this comparison relevant to prospective buyers.

The setup process for both telescopes involved enabling equatorial mode and achieving what the apps reported as perfect polar alignment. While the alignment process is somewhat coarse for both models, it proved adequate for casual astrophotography. Despite this, Lukomatico reported that both telescopes struggled to consistently deliver usable 60-second exposures under the test conditions. On the Seestar S30, exposures had to be limited to 20 seconds to maintain a reasonable data retention rate. The DWARF 3 managed slightly longer 30-second exposures, though 60-second subs were also unreliable on the night. Interestingly, Lukomatico mentioned that on other targets, both telescopes have been capable of handling 60-second exposures, suggesting that performance may vary based on the area of the sky being imaged.

One notable observation was the evolving app experience on the DWARF 3. Lukomatico acknowledged that the DWARF 3’s companion app has received considerable improvements, becoming more intuitive and feature-rich over time. However, for absolute beginners, he still recommended the Seestar S30, citing its simpler, more beginner-friendly app interface that streamlines setup and operation.

When it came to data output, Lukomatico highlighted the different approaches taken by the two telescopes. The DWARF 3 provides a de-noised, stacked, and stretched image by default after stacking is complete. He noted that while this image is usable, the de-noising is somewhat aggressive, resulting in a soft appearance. Importantly, the DWARF 3 also outputs a linear, unstretched FITS file, which can be further processed using tools like ASI FITS Viewer. Lukomatico pointed out that individual sub-frames from the DWARF 3 appear to show less detail, attributing this to the telescope’s dual-band filter, which he suspects may be slightly wider, reducing narrowband contrast.

The DWARF 3 includes dithering as part of its imaging routine, applying a small, random movement every sixth exposure to help mitigate hot pixels and improve overall image quality during stacking. This feature, often reserved for more advanced setups, is a positive addition to the DWARF 3's operation.

Turning to the Seestar S30, Lukomatico explained that he had to use 20-second exposures to achieve acceptable results, with dithering occurring every five exposures. He observed that tracking stability was slightly better on average with the Seestar S30, although both telescopes exhibited inconsistencies on the night. The Seestar S30 also provides a stacked, unstretched FITS file, along with a base output image. Users can apply noise reduction within the app’s edit mode if desired, giving additional flexibility for processing.

A side-by-side comparison of raw stacked images from both telescopes revealed several distinctions. The DWARF 3 and Seestar S30 both have a 150 mm focal length, yet the DWARF 3 produces a noticeably larger field of view due to its use of a smaller pixel pitch sensor with 2-micron pixels, compared to the Seestar S30’s 2.9-micron pixels. The DWARF 3 also outputs images with a landscape orientation, while the Seestar S30’s images are vertically aligned.

When zooming in to examine the star patterns and detail, Lukomatico noted the differing image scale, requiring 2:1 magnification for the DWARF 3 and 3:1 for the Seestar S30 to match the apparent scale of stars between the two. Both telescopes produced approximately 55 minutes of data before clouds interrupted the session, allowing for a detailed assessment of image quality.

Center field star shapes were generally good for both telescopes. However, Lukomatico observed some dispersion in the DWARF 3’s stars that was absent in the Seestar S30 images. Despite this, the DWARF 3 exhibited superior field performance in the corners. The Seestar S30 showed pronounced star elongation and field curvature, especially in the top-left and bottom-left corners, while the DWARF 3 maintained relatively round stars across its entire field of view. Lukomatico attributed this to better field correction on the DWARF 3.

Another feature discussed was the ability to capture flat frames to correct for dust spots and vignetting. The Seestar S30 offers this functionality through its app, simplifying the process of producing calibrated images. The DWARF 3, at the time of testing, did not appear to support flats, requiring users to manage gradients and dust artifacts manually during post-processing.

In terms of available image detail, Lukomatico concluded that both telescopes were closely matched. The Seestar S30 offered slightly better central field performance, but the DWARF 3 provided more consistent image quality across the frame. Applying post-processing tools such as BlurXTerminator further tightened the star profiles on both telescopes, effectively cleaning up imperfections. Lukomatico noted that the finer sampling of the DWARF 3’s sensor gave it a slight edge in processed star sharpness, though both telescopes responded well to this correction.

Further post-processing with tools like NoiseXTerminator revealed slight differences in color balance between the two telescopes. The Seestar S30 images exhibited a narrower filter response, contributing to a more straightforward, aesthetically pleasing color palette. The DWARF 3 images leaned towards a brownish hue out of the camera, though Lukomatico emphasized that color balance can be easily adjusted during editing to match personal preferences or desired aesthetics.

In terms of overall usability, both telescopes performed well. The DWARF 3, while improving rapidly through software updates, remains more complex to operate compared to the Seestar S30. Lukomatico expressed greater confidence that a complete beginner could achieve successful results with the Seestar S30 due to its simplified interface and setup process.

When given the choice on a subsequent night for additional testing, Lukomatico reached for the Seestar S30, citing its ease of use and quicker setup time. Under these conditions, he managed to capture 60-second sub-exposures with the Seestar S30, confirming that both telescopes are capable of handling longer exposures under favorable conditions. However, performance with 60-second subs varied depending on the part of the sky being imaged, with both telescopes struggling on the Sadr region but performing adequately elsewhere.

Additional tests targeting objects like the Cygnus Wall demonstrated that high-quality images can be produced from either telescope with modest data collection times, around 45 to 60 minutes. Lukomatico found the image acquisition process on both devices to be straightforward and low-stress.

In summary, Lukomatico’s head-to-head comparison provided an objective look at the strengths and limitations of both the Seestar S30 and DWARF 3 smart telescopes. Both models offer viable pathways into astrophotography with minimal equipment and complexity. The Seestar S30 stands out for its beginner-friendly app, consistent central field performance, and ability to capture flat frames. The DWARF 3 excels with its wider field of view, finer image sampling, and superior edge-of-field performance. Ongoing software improvements continue to enhance the DWARF 3’s capabilities, though its setup remains slightly more involved compared to the Seestar S30.

Ultimately, both telescopes are capable of producing impressive deep sky images with basic processing, making them attractive options for amateur astronomers seeking portable, automated imaging systems. Lukomatico emphasized that the choice between the two largely depends on user preference for ease of use versus technical performance, with both smart telescopes offering distinct advantages within the growing landscape of compact astrophotography solutions.

Starting a New Journey: Dwarf3 Unboxing & Initial Review. Future SetiAstroSuite collab prospects!

Seti Astro starts a new journey with the Dwarf 3: Unboxing and review

Seti Astro begins a detailed introduction and unboxing of the Dwarf 3 Smart Telescope, marking the start of what he describes as a new collaborative journey with Dwarf Labs and potential future integration into his SetiAstroSuite project. His enthusiasm for this new addition to his astrophotography equipment is evident from the outset as he walks through the unboxing process and provides his initial impressions and technical insights into the Dwarf 3 system.

The telescope arrives in a compact, thoughtfully designed package that includes a dedicated carrying case, which Seti Astro describes as well-built and practical. Along with the main telescope unit, the package contains a set of essential accessories including solar filters rated at ND 100,000, a cleaning cloth, charging cable, a strap for the case, and a tripod. Notably, he comments on the quality of the tripod, describing it as more robust than the tripod he currently uses for his camera, indicating a solid, stable base for astrophotography sessions.

The instruction booklet included with the Dwarf 3 is brief and straightforward, offering quick-start guidance in multiple languages. He mentions that the tripod's setup guide is minimal, but the assembly is intuitive enough not to require extensive instructions. Upon turning on the telescope, Seti Astro highlights the importance of removing the protective cover from the optical system before use to avoid obstructing the view.

The next step in the setup process involves connecting the telescope to the companion mobile application, which Seti Astro accomplishes easily using the NFC functionality built into the Dwarf 3. By simply tapping his phone to the side of the telescope, he quickly establishes a connection. He remarks positively on the inclusion of an online guide and notes the app's various shooting modes, including the option to capture dark exposures, an essential tool for calibrating images and reducing noise in astrophotography.

The built-in Sky Atlas feature within the app also earns his approval. It provides auto-centering functionality based on the telescope’s field of view, which he estimates at approximately 12 degrees across with a 3:1 aspect ratio. He anticipates this wide field of view will be especially advantageous for capturing larger celestial targets, improving the efficiency and framing of wide-field astrophotography sessions.

During preliminary testing outdoors, Seti Astro checks the focus capabilities of the Dwarf 3 and expresses satisfaction with the sharpness and precision of the optics. Beyond astrophotography, he notes the telescope's potential for terrestrial photography, observing that it performs well for real-time viewing and capturing of distant objects during daylight hours. This versatility adds value for users interested in using the Dwarf 3 for both celestial and landscape or wildlife imaging.

Turning to technical specifications, Seti Astro provides a concise overview of the Dwarf 3’s key hardware. The telescope features a compact 35 mm aperture, which, through an internal optical system of lenses and mirrors, achieves an equivalent focal length of 737 mm. The optical design employs a dielectric diagonal that redirects incoming light before it passes through the focusing lenses and onto the imaging sensor. This approach differs from some competing smart telescopes, which rely on multiple diagonals and fewer corrective lenses. He expresses interest in seeing how this optical layout performs under real-world night sky conditions.

The Dwarf 3 uses the Sony IMX 678 sensor, which Seti Astro discusses in more detail. He mentions plans for a future video to explore the sensor’s dark characteristics and overall performance, but in this initial review, he focuses on the filters integrated into the Dwarf 3 system. These include a dual-band filter, an astronomy filter, and a visual filter. He describes the dual-band filter as offering moderate narrowband capabilities, centered around the key hydrogen and oxygen emission lines often targeted in deep sky astrophotography. While he acknowledges that the available graphs do not provide precise bandpass data, his assessment suggests that the filter is sufficiently narrow to effectively block unwanted signal and light pollution, though not as restrictive as professional-grade narrowband filters.

The visual filter, according to Seti Astro, functions similarly to hot mirror filters found in DSLR cameras, designed to block infrared while maintaining high visible light transmission. The astronomy filter, always engaged by default, acts as a UV/IR cut filter, preserving color fidelity and sharpness in astronomical imaging by preventing unwanted ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths from reaching the sensor.

An important aspect of the filter system that Seti Astro points out is the mechanical switching mechanism. The visual and dual-band filters can be engaged or disengaged depending on the selected shooting mode, while the astronomy filter remains permanently active as a baseline filter. This allows users to adapt the telescope’s performance to different imaging conditions without manual intervention or hardware changes.

Seti Astro further prepares for his first astrophotography session by uploading the quantum efficiency curves for the Sony IMX 678 sensor along with the transmission curves for the telescope’s visual, astronomy, and dual-band filters. He notes that available data does not show sensor sensitivity beyond 1000 nanometers, aligning with the performance expectations for this type of CMOS sensor.

Although he does not conduct full nighttime imaging in this video, Seti Astro shares his excitement about putting the Dwarf 3 to the test under real sky conditions in an upcoming video. He teases plans to explore the telescope’s capabilities for deep sky observation and astrophotography, offering viewers the opportunity to join him on this journey by using his promotional discount code for purchases.

Throughout the unboxing and review, Seti Astro emphasizes the practical design and accessibility of the Dwarf 3. From its sturdy tripod and comprehensive filter system to its easy NFC pairing and mobile app functionality, the telescope presents itself as a thoughtfully engineered option for portable, automated astrophotography. He underscores its versatility, not only for capturing celestial objects but also for terrestrial photography, making it appealing to a broad range of users.

The optical design, with its unique use of dielectric diagonals and corrective lenses, intrigues Seti Astro as a feature that may set the Dwarf 3 apart from other compact robotic telescopes on the market. The potential to achieve an extended effective focal length within such a compact housing is a noteworthy advantage for users seeking portability without sacrificing magnification or detail.

The filter system, while not offering ultra-narrowband performance, provides enough light pollution suppression and spectral isolation to support meaningful astrophotography results, especially in moderately light-polluted environments. Combined with the permanent UV/IR cut filter, users can expect clean, sharp images suitable for both visual observation and photographic capture.

Seti Astro’s review conveys a sense of optimism for how the Dwarf 3 may integrate with his existing astrophotography tools and software, particularly the SetiAstroSuite. While the video stops short of providing final verdicts on optical performance under the stars, it lays a thorough groundwork for evaluating the telescope’s build quality, feature set, and ease of use.

The planned follow-up content promises to address key questions about real-world imaging quality, sensor behavior, and practical usability in deep sky observation. His emphasis on careful technical preparation, such as analyzing quantum efficiency and filter curves, suggests a methodical approach that will likely appeal to hobbyists and enthusiasts who prioritize data-driven assessments.

In conclusion, Seti Astro’s unboxing and initial review of the Dwarf 3 highlights the telescope’s thoughtful design, accessible features, and promising technical specifications. With its compact size, straightforward setup, integrated filter system, and use of a capable Sony imaging sensor, the Dwarf 3 positions itself as a viable option for both new and experienced astrophotographers seeking a portable, automated solution. Seti Astro’s upcoming tests and collaborations are poised to provide further insights into the telescope’s performance and its potential role within the evolving landscape of smart astrophotography equipment.

Dwarf 3 in 2025: Honest Re-evaluation (Mosaic, EQ, in-App Processing)

Buy the Dwarf 3