Magic is a video course that teaches you how to build your own stargazing binoculars.
Simple tools, no stress! It’s fun, it’s an adventure, and you can do it!
We teach each step with clear videos
Most projects have hard-to-understand printed directions, cryptic illustrations, and leave you scratching your head. There’s a reason: It’s a lot of work to
a) design it so people can succeed on the first try
b) film the whole process from multiple angles
c) go back and redesign parts if needed
That’s what we did. Every video is closed captioned and the transcript is fully searchable.
Full Kits
We now offer complete kits with 3D printed parts, optics, hardware, and supplies! Because they’re made to order, you can even choose your color. This kit is available to students who have already bought the Magic course or as a combo kit + course that makes a perfect gift.
(Complete kits do not include a tripod. The course gives tripod recommendations.)
Component Kits
We offer individual component kits for optics, (stainless steel) hardware, and some of the extra supplies you need for your build. Gather them on your own schedule!
For those who want to print their own parts, we have component bundles for you! There’s a giftable combo of components and course access, or for those who want to jump into the course immediately, you can buy the course now and then purchase a self-print kit through a link inside the course.
Links to every component
If you’d like to gather your own components, we also provide links to 3rd party vendors for everything. Just add parts to your cart, and wait for them to show up at your door. There’s a list of everything you’ll need. No surprises!
Build something you can’t get anywhere else
No one else manufactures stargazing binoculars like this. You’re not just saving money building it yourself, you’re getting a rare form of magic.
3D print the parts yourself or just order them
If you have an FDM 3D printer, you can print all Magic’s plastic parts yourself! (It takes about 1.25 kg of PETG filament.) Choose your color and customize your look.
If you don’t have an FDM 3D printer, you can order the parts from Analog Sky or through a 3rd party service provider and still customize your color! We walk you through this too.
3D printing requirements: minimum 7x7x7” (175x175x175mm) build volume capable of PETG printing (240C hotend, 75C bed). Magic has not been designed or tested with other engineering filaments, resin printers, or high-speed printing.
Ages 8 to 8000
Kids will need a little help from adults here and there, but you’ll see a 9-year-old girl complete almost every task throughout the course. It’s a huge confidence boost to succeed at a STEM project that’s actually been tested on kids. Building Magic is a great experience to share, and something a young person could keep their whole life.
Build as your budget allows
Say no to payment plans! Build your stargazing binoculars on your own schedule or send friends and family gift ideas. (Many components are under $20.) We have recommendations for both budget and upgrade components. Upgrade to higher-end lenses and eyepieces at any time!
Path to perfection
We’ll continue to improve Magic through user feedback. If parts change, you can just download, print, and add them to your build!
We have a roadmap of planned upgrades like a travel case (coming soon), premium lenses, aromatherapy (yes, coming soon!), electronics, and more.
The journey to the perfect stargazing binoculars begins here. We’ll get there together!
You get:
Lifetime Access to the course
Glow in the Dark Decals mailed to you
Free Course Upgrades for life
Online Support for each lesson
Help Analog Sky develop bigger binoculars!
Giving Magic as a gift?
Sign up using your email address.
When you’re ready to transfer ownership of the account, you can login and change the email address on file to the recipient’s email address.
You can also login and view the lists of components to buy if you’d like to add them to your gift. Shopping now will ensure components arrive for the holiday season.
What does Magic cost to build? Let’s break it down. It’s less if you already have a video tripod or can FDM 3D print your own parts. Prices are in USD and include average US shipping costs:
| Typical Cost (USD) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Optics | $80 standard, $150 for Analog Sky upgrade kit | |
| Entry-level Eyepieces (one pair*) | $72 | |
| 3D Printing (order vs. self-print) | $150-250**/$40 self-print | |
| Hardware | $82 | |
| Tools and Supplies (average) | $50 | |
| Laser (optional)*** | $44 | |
| Tripod/Video Head Combo | $80 | |
| Total (I need everything!) | $514 ($558 with laser) | |
| Total (I have an FDM 3D printer and a tripod!) | $324($368 with laser) |
* A different pair of eyepieces is required for each zoom level. The course includes a full guide to eyepieces and budget picks are between $30-100/pair.
** This represents a low-cost quote from a 3rd party service provider in North America. Cost will vary with time and location. Analog Sky’s own 3D printed component kits are $250.
*** Class IIIa/3R laser modules are highly regulated in the EU, Europe, and other countries. It may not be legal to buy or operate the laser pointer where you live without a license. Please check your local laws.
