How do the Celestron VSP (Vibration Suppression Pads) work?
The Celestron VSP pads are made from a unique material called Sorbothane®. When you place your tripod legs on the pads, they act as a shock absorber between the tripod and the ground. Any vibration energy is absorbed by the Sorbothane® and converted into a tiny amount of heat, effectively stopping the vibration from shaking your telescope and blurring the image.
Will the Celestron VSP pads make a difference for planetary imaging on my concrete patio?
Absolutely. Even on a seemingly solid surface like concrete, vibrations from the mount's motors, wind gusts, or your own movements while operating the focus or computer can travel up the tripod legs. The Celestron VSP pads isolate the tripod from these micro-vibrations, leading to a much steadier image of Jupiter or Saturn, which allows for sharper focus and more resolved detail in your final images.
Are the Celestron VSP pads really better than the cheaper blue gel pads?
Yes. The cheaper alternatives are typically made of silicone, which does not have the same energy-dissipating properties as the genuine Sorbothane® used in the Celestron VSP pads. While silicone might offer some minimal damping, Sorbothane® is an engineered polymer specifically designed to absorb and dissipate shock far more effectively, resulting in faster settling times and a visibly steadier image.
Can I use the Celestron VSP pads on a wooden deck or soft grass?
Yes, these are ideal scenarios for the VSP pads. Wooden decks are notoriously prone to vibration from footsteps, and soft ground like grass allows tripods to shift and vibrate easily. The Celestron VSP pads provide a stable, wide footprint and actively damp vibrations, making these challenging locations much more suitable for steady observing.
How do I use the Celestron VSP pads with my telescope?
Using them is incredibly simple. After setting up your tripod, just lift each leg slightly and place one Celestron VSP pad directly underneath the foot. Ensure the tripod foot is centered on the pad. There is no attachment necessary; the weight of your telescope and mount is all that's needed.
Why is Sorbothane® the best material for the VSP pads?
Sorbothane® is a patented polyether-based polyurethane that has been recognized globally as the best material for attenuating shock and isolating vibration. Unlike any other synthetic rubber or polymer, it combines the properties of shock absorption, good memory, vibration isolation, and vibration damping into a single material, ensuring the most effective performance for an application like stabilizing a telescope.
