Smartphone adapters

The function of a smartphone adapter

A smartphone adapter is a mechanical mount that positions a phone exactly above the eyepiece of a telescope. This method, also called afocal photography, uses the smartphone's lens to capture the image projected by the telescope. It is the most accessible way to take instant photos and videos of bright celestial bodies such as the moon and planets.

Stability and alignment

The biggest challenge when shooting with a smartphone through a telescope is alignment. Even a fraction of a millimeter deviation creates a black image or blur (vignetting). A quality adapter securely clamps the phone and provides fine adjustment over three axes (X, Y and Z). This accurately centers the camera lens above the eyepiece's exit pupil, which is essential for a clear and complete image.

Application to moon and planets

Because smartphones have sensors optimized for short exposure times, they lend themselves well to objects with high surface brightness. The moon, Jupiter and Saturn can be captured in detail with a stable adapter. For deep-sky objects such as nebulae, this method is less suitable because of the limited exposure possibilities and optical noise of small sensors.

Universal compatibility

Most smartphone adapters are universally designed. They are adjustable to accommodate different phone models (including cases) and can be clamped onto eyepieces with diameters of 1.25 inches and often the larger 2-inch varieties. For vibration-free results, it is recommended that you use the self-timer or a bluetooth remote control so that the telescope does not move during printing.