iOptron Universal Side by Side Saddle System

The iOptron Universal Side-by-Side Saddle System is a flexible, precision-machined mounting solution for astronomers looking to run two optical tubes simultaneously on a single mount. Whether you're pairing a guide scope with your main imaging rig or doing side-by-side visual observing with different optical designs, this saddle system gives you the control and adjustability needed to balance and align dual setups with confidence.

Dual-Saddle Design with Adjustable Mounting

The heart of this system is a CNC-machined aluminum dovetail plate with two integrated saddles:

• One Vixen-style saddle, adjustable by ±10mm

• One convertible saddle that accepts both Vixen and Losmandy D-style dovetails

This makes it easy to mount a wide range of telescopes, guide scopes, or even camera rigs. You can mix and match mounting formats or pair two scopes of the same size—whatever suits your observing or imaging goals.

Balance and Position Control Built In

The side-by-side plate itself is Losmandy-style for compatibility with most medium- to large-format equatorial mounts. The saddle positions are independently adjustable along the length of the plate by ±12mm, so you can fine-tune balance without shifting your entire rig.

This is especially helpful when using mismatched optical tubes or offset loads like filter wheels and electronic focusers.

Ideal For:

• Astrophotographers who want to mount a guide scope parallel to their primary imaging scope

• Visual observers looking to compare two different optical systems at once

• Imagers with off-axis guide setups who want better balance and mounting versatility

• Anyone needing more control over payload distribution on a high-quality dual-scope rig

Specifications:

• Material: Black anodized, CNC-machined aluminum

• Mounting Plate: Losmandy D-style dovetail

• Saddles:

  • One Vixen-style saddle (adjustable ±10mm)

  • One dual Vixen/Losmandy-style saddle

• Dovetail plate position adjustability: ±12mm

• Fits most mounts that accept Losmandy-style plates

Observing Tip:
When using a dual-scope setup, try to keep the payloads roughly equal in weight to avoid shifting the mount’s center of gravity too far off-axis. Fine adjustments using the plate’s built-in offset controls can help you stay balanced and track smoothly all night long.