### Rapid Summary
– Hestia is the first smartphone-based telescope, offering 25x magnification and up to 5x sharper resolution than an iPhone’s camera.
– It is indeed designed for ease of use, allowing users (including children) to mount their smartphones on a tripod, align with Hestia’s lens, and operate via the Gravity app.
– The Ultimate Pack includes additional accessories: a solar observation kit for sun viewing, a premium tripod for stability, an anti-glare visor, and a rugged travel case.
– The telescope is available at $239.99 (discounted from its MSRP of $299), with free shipping until September 7 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
Image: StackCommerce
### Indian Opinion Analysis
The launch of a smartphone-powered telescope like Hestia represents how technology can democratize astronomy by making tools more accessible to the general public. For India, where stargazing has deep cultural roots and there is growing interest in space exploration among students following milestones like ISRO’s Chandrayaan missions, technologies like hestia could spark widespread curiosity and engagement at an entry-level cost.
Moreover,such innovations might inspire Indian innovators or manufacturers to develop similar affordable devices tailored specifically for local markets or educational institutions as part of India’s broader push towards tech-enabled education under policies like Digital india.
[Read More](https://www.macworld.com/article/2889613/this-gadget-can-turn-your-iphone-into-a-telescope.html)