Rigel Systems Aline 2″ Collimator
The Rigel Systems Aline 2″ collimator is a dedicated alignment tool for Newtonian telescopes. It contains no optics - instead, it fits into the focuser exactly like a standard eyepiece. This simple design lets you collimate your telescope in daylight, so your instrument is ready before the night session begins. No more fumbling with alignment tools in the dark.
Micro-Prism Retroreflectors - Collimate Even at Dusk
The most important feature of the Aline is its micro-prism retroreflectors, positioned on the inner surface of the collimator body. These highly reflective elements bounce light directly back towards its source. This means you can see a clear, precise image of the primary mirror centre spot even in low-light conditions.
Collimation of your Newtonian telescope is possible even at deep dusk - when most standard collimation tools become unreliable. This is especially useful for observers who want a quick final check just before they begin imaging or visual observing.
Centre-Spot Dot Included
Every Aline collimator comes with a dedicated centre-spot dot for the primary mirror. This dot offers noticeably better reflectivity than the standard dots commonly found on telescope mirrors. If your Newtonian telescope has no centre spot on the primary mirror - or if the existing spot is worn or hard to see - simply apply the included Aline dot. No special tools or technical knowledge are required. The result is a reliable reference point for accurate collimation every time.
Designed for Fast Newtonians and Rich-Field Optics
The Rigel Systems Aline 2″ collimator is optimised for use with fast Newtonian telescopes and rich-field optics. Fast optical systems with a low focal ratio are especially sensitive to even small collimation errors. A poorly collimated fast telescope produces soft, distorted stars across the field of view. The Aline removes that problem. Precise, repeatable collimation ensures sharp, high-contrast images across the entire field of view - and protects the long-term performance of your optics.
About Rigel Systems
Rigel Systems is an American company with a long-standing reputation in the astronomical accessories market. Their products are trusted by both amateur and professional astronomers around the world. The focus is always on precise engineering, reliability, and practical usability. Rigel Systems collimators and accessories are built to make telescope preparation faster and easier, so you can spend more time observing the sky. Every product passes thorough quality control for consistent, long-lasting performance.
Key Features
- Collimator for Newtonian telescopes - no optics, fits the focuser like a standard eyepiece
- Micro-prism retroreflectors for precise alignment in daylight and at dusk
- Compatible with fast focal ratio Newtonian telescopes and rich-field optics
- Centre-spot dot included - easy to apply, no tools needed
- 2″ barrel diameter - fits all standard 2″ focusers
- Made by Rigel Systems, USA - a trusted name in astronomical accessories
Technical Specifications
| Type |
Collimator for Newtonian telescopes |
| Barrel diameter |
2″ |
| Optics |
None - alignment tool only |
| Alignment technology |
Micro-prism retroreflectors |
| Usable lighting conditions |
Daylight and dusk |
| Included accessories |
Centre-spot dot for primary mirror |
| Recommended telescope type |
Fast Newtonian telescopes, rich-field optics |
| Manufacturer |
Rigel Systems, USA |
Who Is This Collimator For?
Beginners
If you have just bought your first Newtonian telescope, the Aline makes collimation straightforward. You can align your telescope at home during the day - no star testing required to get started.
Experienced Observers
Fast Newtonians and Dobsonian telescopes need regular collimation checks. The Aline lets you do a quick, reliable check before every session - even when the sky is still bright.
Astrophotographers
Precise collimation is critical for astrophotography. Even a small alignment error in a fast optical system causes distorted star shapes at the edges of the frame. The Aline gives you the accuracy you need before every imaging session.
