Best Telescope Guiders & Wedges of 2025

Alan Eaton Avatar
Alan Eaton
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Telescope guiders and wedges are essential tools for any serious astronomer. Guiders help to ensure that the telescope remains pointed at the same spot in the sky, even as the Earth rotates. Without a guider, the telescope would quickly drift off course, making it difficult to take accurate readings. Wedges, on the other hand, allow the telescope to be mounted at an angle, which is necessary for observing objects near the celestial equator. Both of these tools are vital for any astronomer looking to capture clear, detailed images of the night sky.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Astrophotography Cover #TOP 1
SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Astrophotography
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Celestron Equatorial Wedge for NexStar Evolution/SE Cover #TOP 2
Celestron Equatorial Wedge for NexStar Evolution/SE
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Celestron HD Pro Wedge Cover #TOP 3
Celestron HD Pro Wedge
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Telescope Guiders & Wedges

SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Astrophotography

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SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Astrophotography Cover
SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Telescope Tube Diameter or Finders 43mm to 70mm with Pair Ideal for Astrophotography

The SVBONY SV116 Guiding Scope Ring Kit is perfect for astrophotography. The kit includes two solid metal guide scope rings suitable for small and medium-sized guiding telescopes. The mounting bar has two M6 through-holes on both sides and three threaded through-holes for easy adaptation to rings. The adjustment crews have teflon inlays to avoid scratches and pressure marks on the telescope while still ensuring reliable clamping. The inner diameter of the tube rings is 70 mm for telescopes between 43 to 70mm tube diameter can be mounted adjustable.

What We Like
Easy to adapt to small and medium-sized guiding telescopes
Adjustment crews have teflon inlays, so the telescope is protected from scratches and pressure marks
Two M6 through-holes on both sides for easy adaptation to rings
#TOP 2

Celestron Equatorial Wedge for NexStar Evolution/SE

93665
Black
Celestron Equatorial Wedge for NexStar Evolution/SE Cover
Celestron Wedge with NexStar Evolution/SE, Black (93665)

The Celestron Equatorial Wedge for NexStar Evolution/SE is designed for intermediate planetary and deep space imagers. The wedge enables long exposure astrophotography and autoguiding by tilting the telescope's azimuth into an equatorial platform allowing it to track an arc around the polar axis. With captive hardware and tool-less operation, it easily adjusts under load. The hefty yet portable design is sturdy with a latitude adjustment screw that has an easy to read scale and integrated bubble level.

What We Like
Enables long exposure astrophotography and autoguiding
Captive hardware and tool-less operation
Sturdy latitude adjustment screw with easy to read scale and integrated bubble level
Hefty yet portable design
#TOP 3

Celestron HD Pro Wedge

93664
Black
Celestron HD Pro Wedge Cover
Celestron Wedge with HD Pro for CPC 8/9/11, Black (93664)

The Celestron HD Wedge is an excellent choice for those using fork-mounted Schmidt Cassegrain telescopes up to 11 inches. It provides a sturdy and reliable base, which is essential for astroimaging. You will appreciate its ability to minimize vibrations, allowing for clearer and more stable images. This heavy-duty wedge is designed to enhance your stargazing experience, making it easier to capture stunning celestial photographs. Additionally, its robust construction ensures durability, so you can focus on your observations without worrying about equipment stability.

What We Like
Stable astroimaging platform
Minimizes vibrations
Supports up to 11-inch telescopes
Durable construction
#TOP 4

Celticbird Finder Scope Ring Kit

Celticbird
Celticbird Finder Scope Ring Kit Cover
Celticbird Finder Scope Guiding Scope Ring Kit for Astronomical - Adjustable for Telescope Tube Diameter or Finders 5mm-38mm

The Celticbird Scope Ring Kit enhances your stargazing experience by transforming your laser pointer into a versatile tool. Made from high-quality aluminum with a durable black finish, this kit ensures longevity and reliability. It accommodates laser pointers with diameters ranging from 5mm to 38mm, making it adaptable for various sizes. The heavy-duty dual-ring design is perfect for attaching to finderscopes or other accessories. Additionally, the three-point adjustment knobs allow for quick and easy alignment, enabling you to focus on the wonders of the night sky with minimal hassle.

What We Like
High-quality aluminum construction
Versatile size compatibility
Easy alignment with knobs
Fits most telescope brands
#TOP 5

Astromania Off-Axis Guider with Micro-Focusing

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Astromania Off-Axis Guider with Micro-Focusing Cover
Astromania Off-Axis Guider with Micro-Focusing - for Successful Astronomy Photos Without A Guide Scope

The Astromania Off-Axis Guider is a brilliant device designed to enhance your astrophotography experience. With its compact size and 45mm optical transmission, this off-axis guider allows you to capture beautiful astronomy photos with perfectly round stars. It is compatible with refractors, SCs, MAKs, and RC telescopes, making it a versatile tool for any astrophotographer. The micro-focusing feature, with its 10mm travel and 0.05mm accuracy, ensures precise tracking and sharpness for your guide star. Additionally, the easy adaptability of the guider allows you to rotate your camera and find the optimum orientation for your subject. With the Astromania Off-Axis Guider, you have the necessary tool to achieve perfect astrophotography and capture stunning images of the night sky.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight
Allows for precise tracking and sharpness
Versatile compatibility with various telescopes
#TOP 6

Astromania Deluxe Off-Axis Guider for Astrophotography

SKU_AM_ZGDO
Astromania Deluxe Off-Axis Guider for Astrophotography Cover
Astromania Deluxe Off-Axis Guider for Astrophotography

The Astromania Off-Axis Guider is a versatile tool for astrophotography. It is the lowest profile off-axis guider available and eliminates mechanical flexure between the main and guiding telescopes, ensuring accurate tracking. This guider can be used with a coma corrector and DSLR camera without leaving the tolerance for the distance between the camera and corrector. It is also compatible with cooled CCD cameras, providing enough space for filter wheels or drawers. Placing the guider behind the corrector ensures that the guide star is not distorted and avoids focusing problems. Compared to simpler guiders, the Astromania Off-Axis Guider has a larger clear aperture, resulting in better illumination for large sensor cameras up to 45mm diagonal. With this tool, there is no need for a guide scope, and the setup remains more compact.

What We Like
Low profile design
Compatible with DSLR and cooled CCD cameras
Eliminates mechanical flexure
Larger clear aperture
#TOP 7

Astromania Guide Scope Mount with Reflex Sight

Astromania Guide Scope Mount with Reflex Sight Cover
Astromania Guide Scope Mount - Bundle with - All-Metal Deluxe Telescope Reflex Sight

The Astromania Guide Scope Mount enhances your stargazing experience with its user-friendly features. The all-metal Deluxe reflex sight allows for easy aiming, making it simple to locate celestial objects both day and night. With a large viewing window and four reticle patterns, you can customize your view for optimal accuracy. The adjustable brightness levels in red or green light ensure visibility in any lighting condition. Additionally, fine-adjustment screws enable precise alignment with your telescope, allowing you to focus on your targets effortlessly.

What We Like
Easy aiming at night
Customizable reticle patterns
Adjustable brightness levels
Precise alignment capability
#TOP 8

Vixen 37223-2 Solar Projection Board

Vixen
37223-2
Vixen 37223-2 Solar Projection Board Cover
Vixen 37223-2 Celestial Telescope Accessory Guide Solar Projection Board A Set

The Vixen Solar Projection Board is an essential accessory for your telescope, measuring 15.9 x 8.3 x 1.8 inches and weighing 32.9 ounces. This set includes a solar projection plate and a 1.8-inch DC ring, allowing you to easily observe solar phenomena safely. The eyepiece adapter is designed to fit various eyepiece sizes, enhancing your viewing experience. Additionally, it's compatible with A80Mf mountable mirror tubes, making it a versatile choice for astronomy enthusiasts. With this accessory, you can enjoy solar observation with greater convenience and precision.

What We Like
Easy solar observation
Lightweight and portable
Compatible with multiple eyepieces
Versatile for different telescope tubes
#TOP 9

Yueoct Telescope Guide Scope Rings

Yueoct
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Yueoct Telescope Guide Scope Rings Cover
YUEOCT Guiding Scope Rings with Finder Dovetail Mounting Plate for Telescope Guidescope Finderscope Guide Scope Tube - 38 to 72mm / 1.49" to 2.83" Diameter Adjustable

The Yueoct Guide Scope Rings are designed to easily mount guide scopes with diameters ranging from 38 to 72mm. This adjustability ensures a snug fit for your equipment, enhancing stability during use. The rings feature three M6 threaded holes on the bottom, simplifying the connection to your existing telescope setup. Additionally, the Synta-style dovetail bar is compatible with many telescopes, making installation straightforward. With built-in locating grooves, you can align your guide rings precisely, improving your stargazing experience.

What We Like
Adjustable diameter for versatility
Easy installation with threaded holes
Compatible with Synta-style mounts
Precise alignment features
#TOP 10

Yueoct Adjustable Guiding Scope Rings

Yueoct
AT-17
Yueoct Adjustable Guiding Scope Rings Cover
YUEOCT Guiding Scope Rings for Telescope Guidescope Finderscope Guide Scope Finder Tube - 65 to 113mm / 2.56" to 4.45" Diameter Adjustable (Set of 2)

The Yueoct Scope Rings are designed to securely mount your guiding scope, accommodating diameters from 65 to 113mm. With nylon-tipped thumbscrews, you can easily fasten your equipment without the worry of damaging it during setup. The stainless steel threaded thumbscrews ensure a sturdy and dependable hold, giving you peace of mind while observing. Additionally, each ring features three M6 threaded holes for easy attachment to your existing gear, making alignment a breeze. These features combine to offer you a reliable and user-friendly experience while using your telescope.

What We Like
Adjustable diameter range
Nylon-tipped protection
Sturdy stainless steel support
Multiple attachment options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a wedge do for a telescope?

A wedge for a telescope is used to tilt the telescope's azimuth axis, allowing it to track stars as they move in an arc around the celestial pole. This helps keep objects centered without rotation, which is essential for taking longer exposure astrophotographs.

2. What does an equatorial wedge do?

An equatorial wedge is designed to fit between the telescope and the tripod. It enables equatorial-style mounts to be tilted to correspond with the observer's latitude, ensuring precise polar alignment for the telescope. This is important for accurate tracking of celestial objects.

3. How does the Celestron wedge work?

The Celestron wedge is specifically designed for Celestron NexStar 6/8SE and Evolution Alt-Az mounted computerized telescopes. It allows the telescope's azimuth to be tilted into an equatorial platform, enabling long exposure astrophotography and autoguiding. This feature allows the telescope to track an arc around the polar axis.

4. Why do you need a wedge for astrophotography?

A wedge is necessary for astrophotography because it allows the astrophotographer to align the telescope's axis of rotation with Earth's axis of rotation. This alignment prevents field rotation, which can cause stars in long exposure photographs to appear as streaks or trails.

Editor's Notes

During our telescope guiders & wedge research, we found 16 telescope guiders & wedge products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,634 customer reviews through our big data system to write the telescope guiders & wedges list. We found that most customers choose telescope guiders & wedges with an average price of $61.31.

The telescope guiders & wedges are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of telescope guiders & wedges, including SVBONY, Celestron, Celticbird, Astromania, Vixen. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 582 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Alan Eaton Avatar

Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.