Dwarflab has unveiled the Draco — a portable "smart" telescope developed specifically for professional astrophotography. The device is positioned as a compact solution for capturing deep-sky objects and bright Solar System targets, immediately attracting the interest of amateur astronomers and enthusiasts. According to industry publications, the announcement was made on September 12, 2026, with the first shipments expected approximately three months after pre-orders open.
Optics and tracking accuracy
Weighing just 5.5 kg, the Draco features a 90-millimeter aperture and an automatic tracking system. The optical design uses a folded f/3.8 configuration with a 340 mm focal length, striking a balance between light-gathering power and a compact build. The manufacturer emphasizes high-precision tracking of stellar motion, which is critical for long exposures without blur.
A rotating sensor against Earth's rotation
The key feature of the Draco is the physical rotation of the CMOS sensor to follow the stars, compensating for their apparent motion caused by Earth's rotation. An additional guide camera corrects pointing errors in real time. For imaging bright Solar System objects, the full 50 MP resolution is used, and the kit includes a wide-angle camera with a 23.3 mm focal length for broader frames.
Control and software
The telescope is controlled via a dedicated mobile app. Its functions include autofocus, plate solving, automatic stacking, and frame correction. Experienced users can access Pro Mode, and images can be exported in professional FITS and TIFF formats, making the device suitable for further processing in specialized software packages.
Battery life and delivery timeline
A built-in 10,000 mAh battery provides up to five hours of continuous operation, while an active sensor cooling system reduces thermal noise that interferes with long exposures. At the time of publication, pre-orders are being accepted, with the first shipments expected within three months.
