How do I know which Starlight Instruments 2.0" Riser height I need?
First, determine how much more outward focus travel you need. Rack your focuser all the way out and insert the accessory that won't reach focus. Then, slowly pull the accessory out of the drawtube until the image is sharp. The length of the gap between the accessory's shoulder and the focuser is the approximate riser height you need. Choose the Starlight Instruments 2.0" Riser from the available options (0.65", 1.0", 1.4", 2.75", or 3.75") that is closest to your measurement.
I can't reach focus with my binoviewer on my 12" f/4 Dobsonian. Will a 2.0" Riser help?
Yes, this is a common application for the Starlight Instruments 2.0" Riser. Binoviewers typically require significant in-focus travel, but on some Newtonian designs, the problem is insufficient out-travel. If you cannot achieve focus with your current setup, a riser will move the entire focuser outward, giving you the range needed to bring the binoviewer to a sharp focus, often without needing a Barlow or optical corrector assembly.
My camera needs 55mm of back focus, but my 2.0" Feather Touch focuser is racked out on my imaging Newtonian. Which riser is best?
To determine the right riser, measure how far short of 55mm you are. If, for example, your focuser is fully extended and you still need another 25mm of outward travel, the 1.0" riser (which is 25.4mm) would be the ideal choice. The goal is to select a riser that places your camera's ideal focus point near the middle of the focuser's drawtube travel for fine adjustments.
Will the Starlight Instruments 2.0" Riser introduce any flex into my imaging train?
No. The Starlight Instruments 2.0" Riser is machined from a solid piece of aluminum to the same high tolerances as Feather Touch focusers. When properly installed between a Starlight Instruments base and focuser, it creates a rigid, stable extension that will not introduce tilt or flex, even with heavy camera payloads.
Can I stack multiple Starlight Instruments 2.0" Risers?
While physically possible, it is not recommended. Stacking risers can create a long lever arm that puts excessive stress on the focuser base and telescope tube. It is always better to use a single riser of the correct height. Starlight Instruments offers five options up to 3.75" to cover most scenarios with a single, solid component.
Is this 2.0" Riser compatible with focusers other than Starlight Instruments?
This riser is specifically designed for the bolt pattern and diameter of the Starlight Instruments 2.0" focuser and its corresponding bases. It is not guaranteed to fit focusers or bases from other manufacturers.