Seekers

A good viewfinder helps you find celestial bodies easily and track them accurately. From red-dot viewfinders to optical viewfinders - we offer a wide range of options to enhance your observations.

Seekers

A good viewfinder is the difference between endless searching in the dark and having your target object in view within seconds. Viewfinders provide a rough guideline for your telescope position, then you can quickly find details with the main eyepiece. Choose a simple red-dot viewfinder or a bright rifle scope for better visibility in low light.

• Red-dot viewfinders: Project a bright red dot onto a transparent screen; ideal for beginners and quick location determination.

• 6×30 rifle scopes: small binoculars (6× magnification) with 30 mm objective lens for a wider and brighter field of view.

• Polarization seekers: equipped with crosswires and level especially for accurate polar alignment of equatorial mounts.

• Rigel-spotters: Additional LED lighting around the eyepiece for map reading and instrument illumination.

Our viewfinders are easy to mount, offer fast coarse-focus and are compatible with most dovetail bridges. There is a suitable viewfinder for every telescope to make the start of your evening under the stars smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions about Searchers

1. What is a red-dot viewfinder?
   A reflex finder that projects a red dot on a glass screen to point your telescope roughly.

2. When do I use a 6×30 rifle scope?
   For objects that fit into a slightly larger field of view or if you want to see more detail in front of the telescope.

3. How do I mount a viewfinder on my tube?
   Usually with a dovetail bracket; screw on the viewfinder plate and slide the viewfinder in.

4. Why do I need a polarizer?
   For quick and precise alignment of your mount to the pole star in astrophotography.

5. Does a red-dot work in a full moon?
   Yes, the dot is bright enough to project next to the moon or bright planets.

6. How do I adjust a rigel spotter?
   Aim the LED lights at your planisphere or map without shining directly into your eyes.

7. Is a 6×30 better than a red-dot?
   You really see the target object with 6×30; red-dot is simpler and does not lose image.

8. Can I disconnect the viewfinder during transport?
   Yes, most come with a quick release plate for easy removal.

9. How do I calibrate a viewfinder?
   During the day, aim at a distant object, center in main eyepiece and adjust the viewfinder via screws.

10. Does a viewfinder need batteries?
    Only red-dot and Rigel spotters; rifle scopes and polarizers are mechanical.

11. Does it matter where I mount the viewfinder?
    Choose a position that stays clear of your hands and cables during movement.

12. How large is the field of view of a 6×30?
    Approximately 7-8°; enough to coarsely locate constellations.

13. Is there a 90° finder?
    Yes, for use at high elevations, a 90° prism finder is possible.

14. Can I use a smartphone as a viewfinder?
    With a special holder, you mount your phone on the focuser for live view.

15. How do I maintain my rifle scope?
    Clean lenses with lens pen and microfiber cloth; store in dry case.

16. Why do I see duplicate images in a red-dot?
    Usually due to non-parallel viewing lines; move the viewfinder a little farther from the tube.

17. Does a polarizer also work in the south?
    Yes, you then point it at the pitch of Sigma Octantis or an aurora reference.

18. How firmly does a dovetail tracket sit?
    High-quality brackets offer virtually no backlash; CNC-machined aluminum is optimal.

19. Can I use multiple viewfinders at the same time?
    Yes, with a double dovetail rail you mount both red-dot and scope.

20. How do I protect the viewfinder from condensation?
    Use small dew-shields or heating ribbons to prevent dew.