Stargazer's Binocular Stand

Stargazer's Binocular Stand

Price:  $500

This is a tripod binocular mount for use in stargazing.  The top portion of this apparatus can swivel 360 degrees.  The binoculars mount onto a counter-balanced platform that allows the user to tilt the binoculars over a wide range of inclination.  The long arms on the top portion support the binoculars mounted on the platform at one end, and have counter-weights at the other end.  The design of this system allows multiple people to view the same heavenly body regardless of the height they must move the binoculars in order to look through them.  As the support arm is lowered, the independent binocular support body remains at the same angle!

This system features a teflon lubricated pivot, tripod legs that can be fixed in the open position (for stability) or held closed for transport, and adjustable weights that can accommodate virtually any size binocular.  The wood is unstained solid oak, and the finish is Spar Urethane.  This stand was built with the idea that it should be able to withstand a lifetime of outdoor use, while being repeatedly set up and taken down.  The mechanics of this stand are simple, yet very effective.  The principle has been successfully adapted into another design that suspends a television and VCR from the exposed overhead rafters in an exercise room (90 pounds of electronics and a 45 pound counter-weight!).