Howie Glatter

Laser Collimation Done Precisely

The system is a precisely machined laser body plus interchangeable attachments that adapt it to different stages of alignment.

• Precision-machined laser bodies: Barrel tolerances tight enough that the beam does not wander as the tool is rotated in the focuser, which is the failure mode of cheap collimators.
• Barlowed laser attachments: Project a shadow of the primary's centre spot onto a screen, which removes sensitivity to the laser's own alignment and greatly improves accuracy.
• Holographic attachments: Project a grid or concentric pattern onto the primary, making secondary positioning and rotation visible and adjustable.
• Self-centring adapters: Hold the tool concentric in the focuser regardless of set screw position, eliminating a major source of error.
• Multiple wavelengths and brightness: Options for different visibility conditions and personal preference, with brightness control for indoor use.
• Tublug and screen attachments: Let you observe the returning beam from the primary end of the telescope, so one person can collimate alone.

Why Choose David Astro for Howie Glatter

Collimation accuracy requirements scale sharply with focal ratio, and buying more or less than you need wastes money either way.

• Matched to your focal ratio: At f/6 the laser alone is sufficient. At f/4 the Barlowed attachment is what actually delivers the accuracy, and we will say so.
• Focuser fit assessed: A precise tool in a loose focuser still gives poor results. We will recommend a compression ring if your focuser needs one.
• Centre spot checked: Every laser method depends on an accurately placed centre spot, and we can supply marking templates if yours is missing or off-centre.
• Authorized dealer: Genuine products with manufacturer warranty, in Canadian stock.
• Ships from Canada: No duties or brokerage fees for Canadian orders.

Howie Glatter in Canada — Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a Barlowed laser more accurate?

It projects a shadow of the centre spot rather than relying on a returning beam, which makes the result independent of whether the laser itself is perfectly collimated. That removes the main error source.

Does my focuser affect laser accuracy?

Considerably. If the tool can rock in the focuser, the beam moves with it and every reading is suspect. A self-centring adapter or a compression ring focuser solves this.

Do I need the holographic attachment?

It is most useful for secondary mirror positioning and rotation, which is the step that causes the most persistent collimation problems. For primary alignment alone it is not required.

Can I collimate alone with these tools?

Yes. Screen attachments let you see the returning beam from the mirror end, so you can adjust the primary and read the result without a second person or a mirror.

Collimating precisely?

Tell us your focal ratio and focuser and we will recommend the right combination. Authorized dealer, Canadian stock.