Hands On Optics Star Dust Observing Chair

5.0 I almost never observe without it!

Wide adjustment range. Foot rest. Folds flat for storage and travel.

Somewhat heavy. Wiggly seat takes a little getting used to.

I bought this used at the Stellafane swap tables. I previously used an adjustable height drummer's stool but it had its limitations, except for light weight. The Stardust chair is about 15lbs which is a little on the heavy side, but it allows me so much leeway in height that it is worth it. The springs in the seat give an initial impression that it could break, but this appears to be unfounded. The seat has an additional hook set for hanging flat for storage.

I was thinking at one point of getting a chair with a sliding (friction-secured) seat such as the similarly named "Starbound" chair or the "SmartSeat", and (always looking for a bargain) had I found one of them instead of the Stardust chair I probably would have bought one of them. But it is just as well that I ended up with the Stardust chair where one has to lift up and remove the seat to transfer from one rung to the next, because from what others have told me, those friction-based adjustable seats don't keep their positions very well.

The chair has a fold out foot rest which is handy when the seat is up high. When the seat is low the railing becomes a backrest which is really appreciated. At 50 years old, comfort when observing is a must. This chair goes a long way towards that end.