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A laser collimator is an essential tool for maintaining the accuracy and performance of your reflecting telescope. Using a laser beam to align the mirrors in your telescope will ensure that it produces sharp and clear images every time you use it.
A laser pointer can also be used as a collimation tool, but a laser collimator is designed specifically for telescopes.
However, with so many different models of laser collimators available, it can be challenging to know which one to choose.
In this article, we will provide an overview of some of the most popular models of laser collimators and their features to help you make an informed decision when selecting the right tool for your telescope.
What is a laser collimator for telescope?
A laser collimator is a device used to align the optical elements of a telescope, such as mirrors and lenses, to ensure that they are properly oriented and functioning optimally.
How laser collimator works
A laser collimator works by emitting a narrow beam of laser light, which is then used to align the various optical elements of the telescope.
The device is typically placed in the eyepiece holder of the telescope, and the laser beam is directed toward the primary mirror of the telescope.
The beam is then reflected back onto the laser collimator, allowing the user to adjust the various elements of the telescope until the reflected beam is aligned with the center of the laser collimator.
The beam radius of a laser collimator determines the precision of the collimation process.
A low beam divergence in a laser collimator ensures that the collimation beam remains focused over long distances, resulting in greater accuracy.
Best laser collimator
There are many different types of laser collimators available on the market, each with its own unique features and advantages.
Below are some of the best laser collimators currently available.
Laser Diode Collimator
Laser Diode Collimator Lens are among the most popular and commonly used laser collimators. These devices use a laser diode to emit a narrow beam of light that is used to align the various elements of the telescope.
One of the main advantages of laser diode collimators is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. They are also very accurate and can serve to align both Schmidt-Cassegrain and Newtonian reflector telescopes.
Hotech SCA Laser Collimator
HoTech 1.25″ SCA Laser Collimator is another popular option among telescope enthusiasts. These devices use a patented Self-Centering Adapter (SCA) system that allows for easy and precise alignment of the various optical elements of the telescope.
The Hotech SCA laser collimator also features a built-in battery, which allows for cordless operation and makes it easy to use in the field.
Astromania Alignment 1.25″ for Newtonian Reflecting Telescope
The Astromania Alignment 1.25″ Next Generation Laser Collimator 2″ Adaptor is an ideal tool for aligning your reflector telescope’s optics. It comes with a removable 2″ adapter that fits both standard 1.25-inch diameter and 2-inch diameter scopes.
The red laser collimation beam with seven brightness levels, wavelength 635-655 nm, ensures safe use for your eyes. The laser collimator is built with metal material, and the CR2032 Lithium Cell battery is not included.
The precision-made aluminum housing with a front opening and side window ensures optimal adjustment for collimating your telescope, and the tool can be used in all 1.25″ focusers.
Zhumell Newtonian Laser Collimator
Zhumell 1.25″ Laser Collimator is a high-quality laser collimator that is designed specifically for Newtonian telescopes. This device features a 650nm red laser diode that emits a narrow beam of light that is used to align the various elements of the telescope.
The Zhumell Newtonian collimator laser is very accurate and easy to use, making it a popular choice among amateur astronomers.
Orion Deluxe Laser Collimator
For those who want to enjoy the best views from their reflector telescope, the Orion 5691 LaserMate Deluxe II Telescope Laser Collimator is an excellent option.
This second-generation laser collimator features an improved aluminum housing with a wider barrel flange of 3mm, providing proper seating for precise and consistent collimation with every use.
What sets this collimator apart is its convenient rear view port, which allows you to easily collimate the optics from the rear of the reflector telescope.
With the Orion 5691 LaserMate Deluxe II Telescope Laser Collimator, aligning your reflector optics has never been easier.
The GSO 1.25″ Newtonian Deluxe Laser Collimator
The GSO 1.25″ Newtonian Deluxe Laser Collimator is a precision optical instrument designed for aligning the optical elements in a Newtonian reflector telescope.
The collimator features a 1.25″ barrel size that fits into the focuser of most Newtonian telescopes. It is constructed with high-quality materials and is designed to provide accurate and reliable results.
SVBONY Red Laser Collimator
SVBONY Red Laser Collimator is a user-friendly tool that makes collimation of 1.25” and 2” reflector telescopes simple and easy. It is built with a solid metal body and comes with a removable 2” adapter for added versatility.
With seven brightness levels, the red laser beam is adjustable for various light conditions, providing accurate alignment in both bright and dark environments.
The collimator offers a quick and precise alignment in just a few minutes, resulting in clearer and more detailed images.
Farpoint Laser Collimator
The Farpoint Laser Collimator is an essential tool for reflector telescopes that require precise collimation. It features a 1.25″ barrel size and a 650nm red laser, making it compatible with a wide range of telescopes.
The Farpoint package includes a mirror spotting template, center spots, and instructions, making it easier for users to achieve accurate collimation.
The center spots and mirror spotting template aid in identifying the center of the primary mirror and secondary mirror, respectively, ensuring precise alignment.
How to use a laser collimator
Using a laser collimator is a straightforward process and can help you to achieve accurate alignment of your telescope’s optics.
Here are the basic steps to follow when using a laser collimator:
- Mount the laser collimator in your telescope’s focuser, making sure it is securely fastened.
- Turn on the laser collimator and point it at a flat surface, such as a wall or a piece of white paper.
- Adjust the collimation screws on your telescope’s primary mirror until the laser dot is centered on the surface. If your telescope has a secondary mirror, you may also need to adjust its position to achieve optimal alignment.
- Once the laser dot is centered, you can check the alignment of your telescope’s optics using a collimation eyepiece or another alignment tool.
How to collimate a laser collimator
Collimating a laser collimator is an important step that ensures that the laser beam is aligned with the collimator’s body.
Here’s how to collimate a laser collimator:
- Turn on the laser collimator and point it at a flat surface, such as a wall or a piece of white paper.
- Look at the laser dot and adjust the collimation screws on the collimator until the dot is centered and circular.
- Rotate the collimator by 180 degrees and repeat the process to ensure the laser beam is aligned with the collimator’s body.
- Once the laser collimator is collimated correctly, it is ready for use in aligning your telescope’s optics.
You may also like: How To Collimate Mirrors On Newtonian Reflector
How to calibrate laser collimator
Calibrating a laser collimator is an important step to ensure its accuracy and precision.
Here are the steps to calibrate a laser collimator:
- Obtain a calibration tool or a target with a known reference point. A calibration tool is a specialized device designed to calibrate laser collimators, while a target with a known reference point can be any object with a distinct feature or marking, such as a crosshair or a grid.
- Place the calibration tool or target at a distance of approximately 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) away from the laser collimator.
- Turn on the laser collimator and adjust the collimation screws until the laser dot is centered on the calibration tool or target’s reference point.
- If necessary, repeat the process from a different angle to ensure that the laser collimator is aligned in all directions.
- Check the alignment of the laser collimator periodically and recalibrate as necessary.
How to tell if laser collimator is collimated?
To check whether your laser collimator is properly collimated, you can perform a simple test using a collimation eyepiece or another alignment tool.
Here’s how to test the collimation of a laser collimator:
- Mount the laser collimator in your telescope’s focuser and turn it on.
- Insert a collimation eyepiece or another alignment tool into the focuser.
- Look through the collimation eyepiece and observe the laser beam. The laser beam should appear as a round dot centered in the middle of the eyepiece.
- If the laser beam is not centered or appears distorted, you may need to collimate the laser collimator itself using the steps outlined in the previous section.
Why barlow a laser collimator?
Barlowing a laser collimator can help to increase the accuracy of the collimation process by reducing the size of the laser dot and increasing its intensity.
This is because a barlow lens magnifies the laser dot, making it easier to see and allowing for more precise adjustments.
How does a barlowed laser collimator work?
A barlowed laser collimator works by using a barlow lens to magnify the laser dot, making it easier to see and allowing for more precise adjustments.
Here are the steps to use a barlowed laser collimator:
- Mount the laser collimator in your telescope’s focuser, making sure it is securely fastened.
- Insert the barlow lens into the focuser and adjust its position until the laser dot is visible through the eyepiece.
- Adjust the collimation screws on your telescope’s primary mirror until the laser dot is centered in the middle of the eyepiece.
- If your telescope has a secondary mirror, you may also need to adjust its position to achieve optimal alignment.
Laser collimator DIY
If you’re feeling handy, you can build your own laser collimator using simple tools and a few basic materials such as a laser diode module, Metal tube (such as a PVC pipe), focusing lens, batteries and battery holder, soldering iron, drill and drill bits.
Here’s how to build a laser collimator:
- Cut the metal tube to the appropriate length to fit your telescope’s focuser.
- Drill a small hole in the center of one end of the tube and insert the laser diode module.
- Solder wires from the laser diode module to the battery holder.
- Drill a larger hole in the other end of the tube and insert the focusing lens.
- Connect the batteries to the battery holder and turn on the laser collimator.
- Adjust the collimation screws on your telescope’s optics until the laser dot is centered.
FAQs about laser collimators
Here are some frequently asked questions about laser collimators:
What is a good Dobsonian telescope laser collimator?
A good laser collimator for Dobsonian telescopes is one that has a large beam diameter and is easy to use.
Some of them are as follows
- The Astromania Alignment 1.25″ Next Generation Laser Collimator 2″ Adaptor
- SVBONY Red Laser Collimator
How do you use a Dobsonian telescope laser collimator?
To use a laser collimator with a Dobsonian telescope, you simply need to insert the collimator into the focuser and turn it on.
Point the laser at the primary mirror and adjust the collimation screws until the laser dot is centered on the mirror.
Then, point the laser at the secondary mirror and adjust its position until the laser dot is centered on it as well.
Repeat the process until both mirrors are aligned and the laser dot remains in the same position when you rotate the telescope.
What is a good collimator lens for Laser Diode?
A good collimator lens for a Laser Diode depends on the specific diode and its beam characteristics. Generally, a simple spherical lens is great for that purpose.
How do I collimate a Newtonian telescope with laser collimator?
To collimate a Newtonian telescope with a laser collimator, you need to first insert the collimator into the focuser and turn it on.
Point the laser at the primary mirror and adjust the collimation screws until the laser dot is centered on the mirror.
Then, point the laser at the secondary mirror and adjust its position until the laser dot is centered on it as well.
Repeat the process until both mirrors are aligned and the laser dot remains in the same position when you rotate the telescope.
How do I collimate the Hotech Laser Collimator?
To collimate the Hotech Laser Collimator, you need to first insert it into the focuser and turn it on.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the collimation screws until the laser dot is centered on the primary mirror.
Then, use the built-in crosshairs to adjust the secondary mirror until it’s centered on the laser dot as well.
How do I collimate the Orion Laser Collimator?
To collimate the Orion Laser Collimator, you need to first insert it into the focuser and turn it on.
Adjust the collimation screws until the laser dot is centered on the primary mirror using the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use the built-in sighting tube to adjust the secondary mirror until it’s centered on the laser dot as well.
What is the best laser collimator for RC astrographs?
The best laser collimator for RC astrographs depends on the specific model and its requirements. One good option is the Hotech SCA laser collimator.
What if my laser collimator does not have holes?
If your laser collimator does not have holes, you can use a special adapter to attach it to your telescope. Alternatively, you can hold the laser collimator in place with your hands or use a makeshift holder such as a cardboard tube or a piece of PVC pipe.
What is the best 1.25 laser collimator for SCT?
Orion 5691 LaserMate Deluxe II Telescope Laser Collimator is considered one of the best laser collimators for SCT telescopes. It features a 1.25″ barrel and a 650nm red laser for accurate alignment. It also includes a removable 2″ adapter, making it versatile for different telescopes.
How often should I use a laser collimator?
It is recommended to use a laser collimator every time you set up your telescope, especially if you transport your telescope frequently.
The collimation of your telescope can be affected by many factors such as transportation, temperature changes, and the stress on the optics from using the telescope.
Therefore, it is important to check and adjust the collimation of your telescope regularly to ensure the best performance.
Takeway: Enhance your stargazing experience with a laser collimator
A laser collimator is an essential tool for any astronomer looking to get the best performance out of their telescope.
The quality of the optical components used in a laser collimator plays a critical role in determining the collimation accuracy and precision.
Properly collimating a telescope ensures that the mirrors are aligned correctly and light is reflected accurately, leading to sharper images and better overall viewing experiences.
There are a variety of laser collimators available on the market, each with their own unique features and advantages.
It’s important to choose a collimator that’s appropriate for your telescope’s design and focal length, and to properly use and maintain the collimator to ensure optimal performance.
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