Universe2go
$99
Universe2go is an augmented reality star viewer that combines a star chart with your smartphone to provide a unique stargazing experience.

Our take
Transform your smartphone into a personal planetarium.
Alright, so let's talk about this Universe2go thing. It’s basically one of those fancy augmented reality gadgets that you pop on your head to check out the stars. First off, it’s kind of neat how it blends the actual night sky with digital info. You look up, and bam, there’s stuff like constellations and planets pointed out for you. But, here's the rub: it looks a bit clunky. It's like wearing binoculars on your face, which might make you feel a tad silly if you're not in the privacy of your own backyard.
The setup is pretty straightforward, thankfully. You download an app, plug in your phone, and you’re off to the races. That said, make sure your phone is compatible because not all are, and that's a bit of a downer if you’ve got your heart set on using it. The real magic happens when everything syncs up smoothly — you get this cool layering of info over the sky. But if your phone’s GPS is wonky or the alignment’s off, it can be a bit of a headache to get right.
One of the strong points worth mentioning is that it’s genuinely educational. If you’re a stargazing newbie or just want to impress your friends with some celestial knowledge, it’s handy. You’ll actually learn about the myths and science behind the stars, which is fun for a night under the stars. But, be ready for a learning curve. Some of the functions aren’t super intuitive right out of the box, and you might find yourself fiddling around a bit longer than expected.
Now, let’s talk about comfort. Wearing this thing for a long time can get a bit uncomfortable. It’s not exactly heavy, but it’s not feather-light either. And if you wear glasses, you might run into some awkward fitting issues. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning a long night of stargazing.
Overall, Universe2go is a mixed bag. It’s a neat gadget for sure, and it can transform how you look at the night sky. But it’s got its quirks. If you’re patient and willing to fiddle a bit, you might just find it a worthwhile purchase. If not, maybe stick to a good ol’ fashioned star map and a blanket. Either way, it's worth a shot if you're curious about the cosmos and don't mind a bit of tech tinkering.
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$12.95

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