Piers and Wedges Tripods are versatile and useful if you need to set your telescope up in different places, often on uneven ground. But if you plan an observatory or always use your telescope in the same place you should consider the convenience of a dedicated pier. A pier is more compact and doesn't have legs sticking out that get in the way and take up valuable space. A properly designed pier will also be more rigid so the view through the telescope will be steadier, essential for high-power viewing and astrophotography. These piers are designed to take a variety of heads or wedges making them suitable for many different telescopes. They have been developed by experienced astronomers and incorporate several features that increase rigidity and damp out vibrations. Even if you don't have an observatory it is worth considering a pier in the open. Some astronomers leave their pier and mount permanently aligned so that setting up time and effort is greatly reduced. A suitable cover can protect the equipment and make it unobtrusive when not in use. | 
