Review on 🌌 Astromania Alignment 1.25" Next Generation Laser Collimator with 2" Adaptor for Newtonian Telescopes: Precision and Versatility Combined by Patrick Bacho

Choosing a cheap laser collimator can be confusing — there are so many makes and models, and prices range from $20 to nearly $100 for what appears to be the same item (and if it actually is, probably is!). Some reviews have reported collimators failing, so being able to readjust the collimator if needed was a deal breaker. I'm happy to report that straight out of the box the Astromania was perfectly collimated but with three small plugs in case it needed adjustment (no Allen key included). To check the collimation, I put the collimator in the focuser of the eyepiece and rotated it. The position of the laser point on the primary mirror has not changed. However, I will probably install V-blocks and test them at a greater distance. The included 2 inch adapter fits the collimator snugly and allows enough clearance to slide it in and out of the adapter. This contributes, as expected, to a slight but necessary tilt in the position of the laser spot. The solution is to insert the collimator firmly and straight into the adapter or focuser before tightening the screw. If an adapter is used, do the same when installing the adapter into the eyepiece mount. My device came with a battery even though it says it's not included. On my device there is a big jump in brightness between 4 and 5 positions, and between 6 and 7 the difference is not big. The tip itself is well focused and round. The brightness control turns a little tight, but may loosen over time. Oh yes, there are some typos in the instructions and it incorrectly states that this collimator is for reflecting telescopes). You can spend multiple times on what appears to be the same item. This worked as expected. In real conditions, none of the shortcomings prevented me from adjusting the reflector.