Apollo Instruments Unveils DSKY Moonwatch: A Space-Inspired Wristwatch with Modern Tech Features
British startup Apollo Instruments has introduced a unique wristwatch, the DSKY Moonwatch, inspired by the Apollo 11 spacecraft’s onboard computer that made history by landing humans on the Moon in 1969. However, this isn’t just a retro-style watch – it also integrates modern technology to offer users functional computing capabilities.
The DSKY Moonwatch draws its design from the Apollo spacecraft’s onboard control system, specifically the DSKY (Display and Keyboard) unit, a crucial component of the mission. The design closely mirrors the original, down to the recreated Gorton font and the precise color selection for buttons and screen symbols. The colors were carefully chosen in collaboration with Rosco, a supplier of color filters for film studios, ensuring an authentic look.
To ensure the highest level of accuracy, the development team used data from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Instrumentation Laboratory, which was responsible for designing the Apollo spacecraft’s systems. The result is a watch that mirrors the classic design, but with upgrades for modern-day functionality.
“We made a conscious decision to move away from the typical membrane keyboard. Instead, we chose tactile microswitches for each key, sealed with a hermetically sealed cover to improve the user experience,” the developers shared on their official website.
The DSKY Moonwatch features an OLED display and a built-in GPS module. Its open-source firmware is compatible with platforms like Arduino and Python, giving users flexibility to customize and expand the watch’s capabilities. Powered by an ATSAMD21 M0 processor, the watch includes 256 KB of flash memory and 32 KB of RAM. Additionally, it offers an 8-channel digital input/output port, which can be used for controlling development boards, breadboard setups, and robotic devices.
Looking ahead, Apollo Instruments plans to offer software updates and new features, enhancing the watch’s functionality for enthusiasts and developers alike.
Priced at £649 (approximately $812), the DSKY Moonwatch will be available for purchase starting in the first quarter of 2025, offering both a stylish tribute to the Apollo missions and a cutting-edge tool for modern tech enthusiasts.
