Skip to content
IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
Explore Scientific Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate - Discontinued

Explore Scientific Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate - Discontinued

by Explore Scientific
SKU ES-VXNSML
Sold out
$39.99 - $39.99
$39.99
$39.99 - $39.99
$39.99
Price Match Policy!
  • 5.125-inch length for compact optical tubes
  • Industry-standard Vixen-style dovetail profile
  • Machined from a single piece of extruded aluminum
  • Durable black anodized finish to prevent wear
  • Lightweight design maintains rigidity and stability
Out of stock
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in CONUS on orders over $350.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Explore Scientific Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate

    The Explore Scientific Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate provides a rigid, 5.125-inch mounting foundation for your optical tube assembly, machined from a single piece of extruded aluminum for maximum stability. It serves as the critical connection point between your telescope and mount, ensuring a secure fit for safe and stable observing or imaging sessions.

    A 5.125-inch Foundation for Vixen-Style Mounts

    This saddle plate is engineered from a solid piece of extruded aluminum, making it both lightweight and exceptionally rigid. The 5.125-inch length is ideal for smaller refractors, Maksutov-Cassegrains, and other compact OTAs, providing a secure base without adding unnecessary weight or length. A sleek black anodized finish protects the plate from scuffs and corrosion, ensuring a long service life.

    Vixen vs. Losmandy: Choosing the Right Standard

    The "Vixen-style" dovetail is the most common mounting standard for consumer telescopes, characterized by its narrow, 45mm profile. This plate is compatible with a wide range of popular mounts, including the Explore Scientific iEXOS-100, Celestron AVX, and Sky-Watcher EQM-35.

    While the Vixen standard is perfect for light-to-medium payloads, heavier telescope systems often use the wider, more robust "Losmandy-style" plate. It's critical to match your saddle plate to your mount's saddle; this Explore Scientific plate is designed exclusively for Vixen-style saddles and will not fit a Losmandy-style clamp.

  • What is the length of the Explore Scientific Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate?

    The saddle plate measures 5.125 inches in length. This compact size is ideal for securely mounting smaller telescopes without adding excess weight or creating balance issues.

    What mounts are compatible with this Explore Scientific Vixen-style plate?

    This plate is compatible with any mount that uses a Vixen-style (V-style) saddle. This includes many popular mounts from brands like Explore Scientific, Celestron (AVX, CG-5), Sky-Watcher, Orion, and Vixen. It is not compatible with mounts that use the wider Losmandy-style (D-style) saddle.

    How do I attach this saddle plate to my telescope tube?

    You attach the plate to the bottom of your telescope's tube rings or directly to the tube's mounting block using bolts. Mounting bolts are not included, as the required length and thread type vary depending on your specific telescope model. You must use the hardware that came with your telescope or tube rings.

    Is this Vixen-style plate strong enough for my 8" SCT?

    While this plate can physically support an 8" SCT for visual use on a capable mount, many imagers prefer a longer plate for this size of telescope. A longer plate provides more surface area for attachment and allows for greater adjustment when balancing the payload, which is critical for astrophotography.

    Can I use this Explore Scientific plate to piggyback a guide scope on my C11?

    Yes, this short plate is an excellent choice for mounting a lightweight guide scope or other accessory on top of a larger optical tube like a Celestron C11. You would attach this Vixen plate to the top of the C11, and then use a Vixen-style clamp on your guide scope rings to attach it to the plate.

    What is the difference between this Vixen-style plate and a Losmandy-style plate?

    The primary difference is size and capacity. Vixen-style plates are narrower and designed for lighter telescope setups. Losmandy-style plates are wider and thicker, providing a more rigid and secure connection for heavier optical tubes and imaging payloads. The two systems are not cross-compatible.

  • GTIN 812257016631
    Length 5.125 inches
    Dovetail Style Vixen-style
    Material Extruded Aluminum
    Finish Black Anodized

    • Short Vixen-Style Saddle Plate

      × 1

  • No product-specific manual or software is available for this accessory.

  • Explore Scientific Warranty