What makes the Howie Glatter 1.25" laser collimator different from other lasers?
The primary difference is its proven durability and alignment stability. Every Howie Glatter collimator is shock-tested on three axes and re-verified to hold its tight 15 arc-second alignment. This means it can withstand normal field use and even minor drops without losing the precision you rely on for accurate collimation.
How do I use the Howie Glatter collimator to align my 8" f/5 Newtonian?
For a Newtonian like an 8" f/5, the process starts by placing the collimator in the 1.25" focuser. First, you adjust the secondary mirror's tilt until the laser beam hits the exact center of your primary mirror's center mark. Second, you adjust the primary mirror's collimation screws until the return beam, reflected from the primary, travels back up the tube and enters the aperture of the laser collimator it came from.
Can I use this 1.25" laser to collimate a refractor?
Yes, but with a critical safety step. Place the collimator in the focuser without a diagonal. The laser will pass through the objective lens and exit the front of the telescope. You must place a beam stop, like a strip of masking tape across the dew shield opening, to prevent the beam from hitting anything or anyone. First check that the beam passes through the center of the objective, then adjust the objective's angular alignment so the beam reflected from the center of the rear element returns to the collimator face, centered on the laser aperture.
What is the included 1mm aperture stop for on the Howie Glatter collimator?
The removable 1mm aperture stop is a precision-enhancing tool. It fits into the laser's front aperture and shapes the beam into a much smaller, perfectly circular spot that resembles a star's diffraction pattern. This makes it easier to judge the exact center of the beam when aligning your optics, especially when centering the return beam on the collimator's face.
Why should I choose the 635nm Howie Glatter laser over the 650nm version?
Choose the 635nm version if you often collimate in brighter conditions, such as twilight. While both lasers have the same power output, the 635nm wavelength appears about two to three times brighter to the human eye. This makes the laser spot significantly more visible against a sky that is not yet completely dark. For collimation in full darkness, the 650nm version is sufficient.
What are the essential safety precautions for using this Class IIIa laser collimator?
Safety is paramount. Follow these rules when using the Howie Glatter laser: Never allow the direct or reflected laser beam to enter anyone's eye. When first using the collimator in a Newtonian or Cassegrain, point the telescope at a nearby wall to check if a misaligned mirror is causing the beam to exit the front of the tube. For refractors, always place a beam stop (like tape) across the dew shield opening. When turning the laser off, rotate the battery cap at least one full turn counter-clockwise past the point where the laser extinguishes to prevent it from turning on accidentally in storage.
