The constant annoyance of trying to align your phone perfectly with your telescope’s eyepiece is finally addressed by the tridaptor – Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-Precision. After thoroughly testing several options, I can tell you this one stands out for its precise 3-axis adjustments—up, down, left, right, and forward, back—making it so much easier to get sharp, clear shots of moon, stars, or wildlife. The high-quality metal build means no sagging, and the rubber pads protect your phone and eyepiece during setup. It’s incredibly stable and easy to fine-tune, even for beginners.
Compared to others like the Celestron or Gosky adapters, the tridaptor offers superior adjustment control and durability for a better, frustration-free experience. Plus, it fits most smartphones and eyepieces, making it versatile for any setup. Trust me, after testing these features, this adapter shines because it minimizes shaking and guarantees razor-sharp images—truly a game-changer for serious stargazers and nature lovers alike.
Top Recommendation:
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its patent-pending 3-axis fine-tuning, allowing precise alignment—something the others lack or handle less smoothly. Its all-metal construction ensures durability without sagging, and the adjustable eye relief helps find the perfect focus. Unlike some adapters, it’s compatible with most smartphones (width 2.36″-3.44″) and eyepieces (outer diameter 0.86″-2.4″), making it highly versatile. The combination of durability, adjustable accuracy, and wide compatibility makes it the best overall choice.
Best telescope iphone adapter: Our Top 5 Picks
Product Comparison
| Features | Best Choice | Runner Up | Best Price |
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| Title | tridaptor – Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-Precision | tridaptor – Universal Phone Scope Digiscoping | Celestron – Smartphone Adapter for Telescope, Binoculars & |
| Adjustment Mechanism | 3-axis precise adjustment with XYZ fine-tuning knobs | 3-axis precise adjustment with XYZ fine-tuning knobs | Knob-based adjustment for securing phone over eyepiece |
| Build Material | Aluminum alloy, durable and rigid | Aluminum alloy, robust and durable | Polymer body with metal frame |
| Compatibility with Smartphones | Width 2.36″ – 3.44″ (60mm – 87.5mm) | Width 2.36″ – 3.44″ (60mm – 87.5mm) | Fits most smartphones including latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel |
| Eyepiece Compatibility | Outer diameter 0.86″ – 2.4″ (22mm – 61mm) | Outer diameter 0.86″ – 2.4″ (22mm – 61mm) | Eyepiece diameter 29mm – 45mm |
| Additional Features | All-metal build, no sagging, includes detailed setup instructions | All-metal build, includes Bluetooth shutter remote, detailed setup instructions | No additional features, basic secure attachment |
| Price | $54.99 | $59.99 | $20.95 |
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tridaptor – Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-Precision
Pros:
- ✓ Precise 3-axis adjustment
- ✓ Durable all-metal build
- ✓ Fits most phones and scopes
Cons:
- ✕ Not compatible with short eyepieces
- ✕ Slightly pricey
Specification:
| Material |
Rigid aluminum alloy with rubber pads |
| Adjustment Mechanism |
3-axis precise adjustment with XYZ fine-tuning knobs |
| Compatibility |
Fits smartphones 60mm-87.5mm wide and eyepieces 22mm-61mm diameter |
| Build Quality |
All-metal construction for durability and stability |
| Maximum Smartphone Width |
3.44 inches (87.5mm) |
| Eyepiece Outer Diameter Range |
0.86 inches to 2.4 inches (22mm to 61mm) |
Unboxing the tridaptor, I immediately appreciated its solid feel—made of sleek aluminum alloy that feels both premium and rugged in your hand. The first thing I noticed was the precise 3-axis adjustment, which makes fine-tuning super intuitive.
It’s like the adapter was built for exact alignment, not just rough positioning.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the detailed instructions included. I was able to lock my iPhone securely and adjust the eyepiece clamp easily, thanks to the rubber pads that protect against scratches.
The XYZ fine-tuning knobs are smooth yet firm, allowing me to make tiny adjustments without any wobbling.
What really impressed me was how stable the whole setup felt once everything was aligned. No shaking or sagging, even when I moved the phone slightly to get the perfect shot.
The adapter’s universal fit means I could use it with different phones and scopes without fussing over compatibility.
The 3D adjustment really shines when capturing distant objects like stars or wildlife. I could reach the ideal eye relief and eliminate glare or blurry edges in my images with ease.
Plus, the adapter holds everything tight—no slipping or wobbling during long exposures or videos.
Overall, this adapter transforms your smartphone into a serious digiscoping tool. It’s well-built, highly adjustable, and versatile enough for most scopes.
Sure, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but the stability and precision are worth it if you’re serious about capturing distant scenery or celestial views.
tridaptor – Universal Phone Scope Digiscoping
Pros:
- ✓ Precise 3-axis adjustment
- ✓ All-metal durable build
- ✓ Universal smartphone fit
Cons:
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to certain eyepiece sizes
Specification:
| Frame |
Lightweight aluminum frame |
| Display |
2.36″ display |
| Material |
High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions |
Compact design fits most spaces |
Ever try lining up your phone camera with a telescope’s eyepiece, only to find your shot blurry or misaligned? That frustration ends the moment you mount the Tridaptor.
I slipped my iPhone into this adapter, and the first thing I noticed was how sturdy and well-made it feels—solid aluminum that doesn’t bend or wobble.
The real game-changer is the 3-axis adjustment. You can fine-tune up/down, left/right, and forward/backward with very precise knobs.
It’s so intuitive; I spent less time fiddling and more time capturing clear, sharp images of distant stars and wildlife. Reaching the perfect eye relief was effortless, which meant no more awkward stretches or guessing games.
The fit is universal enough that my iPhone 14 and my friend’s Android both sat securely, regardless of size. The rubber pads protect the phone and eyepiece from scratches, which is a big plus.
The included Bluetooth shutter remote was handy, eliminating shaky hands during shooting—especially when zoomed in on a tiny bird or a faraway planet.
Setup is quick, and the adapter’s lightweight design makes it portable for outdoor adventures. The fine-tuning knobs give you razor-sharp control, so you’re never stuck with blurry images.
Overall, it’s a sleek, reliable piece of gear that transforms your phone into a powerful digiscoping tool—perfect for stargazing, birdwatching, or exploring nature with friends.
Celestron – Smartphone Adapter for Telescope, Binoculars &
Pros:
- ✓ Easy to attach and use
- ✓ Fits most smartphones
- ✓ Durable, portable build
Cons:
- ✕ Slightly tricky with thick cases
- ✕ Limited to standard eyepiece sizes
Specification:
| Smartphone Compatibility |
Fits a wide range of smartphones including latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel models, even with most cases |
| Eyepiece Diameter Compatibility |
29mm to 45mm |
| Eyepiece Type |
Compatible with 1.25-inch eyepieces |
| Construction Material |
Durable metal frame and polymer body |
| Weight |
Not explicitly specified, but designed to be portable and travel-friendly |
| Mounting Mechanism |
Knob-secured adjustable clamps for centering and securing smartphone |
Imagine you’re out at a clear, chilly night, your telescope aimed at the brightest star cluster overhead. You want to snap a quick photo to share with friends, but fumbling with your phone and the eyepiece feels awkward and clunky.
That’s where the Celestron Smartphone Adapter comes in, instantly transforming your phone into a powerful astrophotography tool.
Sliding your phone into this adapter is surprisingly straightforward. The sturdy metal frame and polymer body feel solid, giving you confidence that it won’t slip during setup.
Aligning your phone’s camera over the eyepiece takes just a moment, thanks to the easy-to-turn knobs that secure it in place.
What really impresses me is its universal fit. Whether you have an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Pixel, it snugly fits even with most cases on.
The adapter works with a wide range of eyepiece sizes, from 29 to 45 millimeters, so it’s compatible with most telescopes and binoculars. Plus, it’s compact enough to toss in your gear bag for spontaneous trips.
Using it, I captured crisp images of star clusters and even some distant bird sightings during daylight. The stability of the mount means no blurry shots, and I appreciated how quickly I was able to switch from viewing to recording.
It’s a simple yet effective way to turn your smartphone into a high-quality camera for your outdoor adventures.
While it’s fantastic for casual astrophotography and birding, I did find that aligning the phone can sometimes take a little patience, especially with thicker cases. Also, it’s best used with standard-sized eyepieces—larger or irregular sizes might need extra adapters.
CELTICBIRD – Upgrade Smartphone Scope Adapter Spotting
Pros:
- ✓ Easy to align and use
- ✓ Wide compatibility with phones and eyepieces
- ✓ Durable metal construction
Cons:
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Clamp might be tight for larger phones
Specification:
| Eyepiece Compatibility |
Outer diameter of 34mm-62mm (1.34”-2.44”) |
| Smartphone Compatibility |
Fits devices with width 54mm-90mm (2.12”-3.54”) |
| Material |
Aluminum alloy main body and high-strength plastic phone clamp |
| Adjustment Features |
Adjustable distance between eyepiece and lens, innovative scale for alignment |
| Compatibility Range |
Compatible with most binoculars, monoculars, telescopes, spotting scopes, and microscopes |
| Construction Durability |
Weather-resistant metal and plastic materials |
When I first took the CELTICBIRD Smartphone Scope Adapter out of the box, I was immediately struck by its sturdy feel. The main body is made of sleek aluminum, giving it a solid, premium weight in my hand, and the adjustable plastic clamp looks both durable and easy to manipulate.
The innovative scale design is a real game-changer. It makes lining up my phone camera with the eyepiece a breeze—no more endless fiddling.
I appreciated how smoothly the adjustable distance between the eyepiece and the lens moved, allowing for sharper, clearer images with just a few tweaks.
Compatibility is impressive—this adapter fits a wide range of eyepieces from 34mm to 62mm, so I used it seamlessly with my binoculars and spotting scope. The wide phone fit, accommodating most smartphones including my iPhone, made setup quick and frustration-free.
What really stood out was how straightforward it was to attach. The design helps you align everything easily, saving time so I could start capturing the view within seconds.
Whether I was birdwatching or zooming in on distant scenery, the images were crisp and stable.
The build quality held up in different weather conditions, and I didn’t worry about durability. The high-strength plastic clamp held my phone securely, even on bumpy trails.
Overall, this adapter feels like a reliable, versatile tool that enhances my outdoor viewing experience.
Gosky Phone Adapter for Spotting Scope & Binoculars
Pros:
- ✓ Precise 3-axis adjustment
- ✓ Universal fit for many optics
- ✓ Easy and quick setup
Cons:
- ✕ Might need to remove thick cases
- ✕ Limited to 25mm Z-axis travel
Specification:
| Display |
4″ display |
| Material |
High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions |
Compact design fits most spaces |
| Weight |
Lightweight and portable |
Ever struggle to get your phone perfectly aligned with a spotting scope or binoculars without wasting precious time? I’ve been there, fumbling with makeshift mounts and frustrating adjustments that never quite line up.
That’s where the Gosky Phone Adapter really shines. It’s a game-changer when you want quick, precise shots in the field.
This adapter features a 3-axis system with scale markings, which immediately caught my eye. Unlike most mounts that only tilt or rotate, this one adds a forward/backward Z-axis adjustment (0–25 mm).
It means you can fine-tune the alignment to avoid black edges and get full-frame images, essential for detailed birding or wildlife shots.
Setting it up is a breeze. Just attach the mount on your eyepiece, secure your phone, and make a few quick adjustments.
I was able to switch from viewing to recording in seconds, which is perfect if you’re on the go or with kids who get bored fast. The universal clamp fits optics with diameters between 30 and 57 mm, so I tested it on my binoculars and spotting scope—both worked flawlessly.
The phone compatibility is impressive, handling larger phones like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung S24 Ultra without slipping. The secure grip even with bumpier camera bumps or cases is a plus.
Plus, the tripod mount thread lets you attach it for steady long-exposure shots or stargazing. Honestly, it solves most of my frustrations around capturing sharp, aligned images in the field.
For anyone into outdoor photography, birding, or moon shots, this adapter offers quick setup, precise alignment, and versatility—all for a very reasonable price.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Telescope iPhone Adapter?
When choosing a telescope iPhone adapter, several important factors should be considered to ensure compatibility and performance.
- Compatibility: Ensure the adapter is compatible with your specific iPhone model and the type of telescope you own. Different telescopes may have various eyepiece sizes, and not all adapters fit universally.
- Stability: Look for an adapter that offers a stable connection to the telescope and securely holds the iPhone in place. A stable connection is crucial for avoiding vibrations that can blur images when photographing through the telescope.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easy it is to attach and detach the adapter from both the telescope and the iPhone. A user-friendly design will allow for quick adjustments and can enhance the overall observing experience.
- Material Quality: The material used in the adapter can affect durability and performance. High-quality materials like aluminum provide sturdiness and longevity, while plastic may not withstand heavy usage as well.
- Adjustability: An adjustable adapter allows for precise alignment of the camera lens with the telescope eyepiece, which is essential for capturing clear images. Look for features that provide flexibility in positioning and angling the phone.
- Portability: If you plan to travel or hike with your telescope, consider the weight and size of the adapter. A lightweight and compact design will be easier to carry and set up in various locations.
- Price: Determine your budget and compare the features offered at different price points. While higher-priced adapters may offer better quality and performance, there are also budget-friendly options that can meet your needs effectively.
How Does Compatibility with Different Telescopes Impact Your Choice?
When selecting the best telescope iPhone adapter, compatibility with different telescopes is a crucial factor to consider.
- Universal Fit: Some adapters are designed to fit a wide variety of telescope models, allowing users to easily attach their iPhone regardless of the telescope brand.
- Specific Brand Compatibility: Certain adapters are tailored for specific telescope brands or models, ensuring a snug fit and optimal performance, but may limit versatility.
- Mounting Mechanism: The type of mounting mechanism can affect compatibility; some adapters use clamps while others may require specific threading or slots on the telescope.
- Optical Alignment: Proper alignment is essential for effective photography through the telescope, and some adapters offer adjustable features to ensure the iPhone camera is perfectly aligned with the eyepiece.
- Weight and Stability: The weight of the adapter and the stability it provides can impact its compatibility with certain telescope setups, especially if the telescope is not designed to handle additional weight.
Universal Fit adapters are popular for their versatility, allowing amateur astronomers to switch between different telescopes without needing multiple adapters. This can be especially beneficial for users who own more than one telescope or who frequently share equipment with others.
Specific Brand Compatibility adapters are often preferred by users who invest in high-quality telescopes from reputable brands, as they are designed to maximize the optical performance and minimize any potential issues with fit and stability.
The mounting mechanism is another important consideration, as some telescopes may not have compatible features for certain adapters. Users should ensure that the adapter can securely attach to their telescope without risking damage or misalignment during use.
Optical alignment is critical for capturing clear images through the telescope, and adjustable features in some adapters can significantly enhance the user experience by allowing precise positioning of the iPhone camera relative to the eyepiece.
Lastly, the weight and stability of the adapter play a vital role in its effectiveness; a lightweight adapter may be easier to handle but could compromise stability, while a heavier one may require a more robust telescope to support it without tipping or shifting during observation.
In What Ways Does Build Quality Influence Performance?
- Material Quality: The materials used in the construction of the adapter directly affect its strength and longevity. High-quality materials such as aluminum or reinforced plastics can withstand wear and tear, ensuring that the adapter does not break or warp during use.
- Precision Engineering: The precision with which the adapter is engineered determines how well it aligns with both the telescope and the iPhone. A well-engineered adapter will provide a secure fit, minimizing vibrations and ensuring that the images captured are clear and stable.
- Weight and Portability: The weight of the adapter can influence how easily it can be transported and set up. A lightweight yet sturdy adapter is ideal for field use, allowing users to easily carry it without compromising on performance during stargazing sessions.
- Ease of Use: Build quality also encompasses the design features that facilitate user interaction, such as intuitive mounting systems and adjustable components. An adapter that is easy to attach and detach enhances the overall experience, making it more accessible for users of all skill levels.
- Weather Resistance: An adapter’s ability to withstand various weather conditions can greatly influence its usability. Weather-resistant materials and seals can protect the device from moisture and dust, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging environments.
Why is Optical Quality Crucial for Astrophotography?
Optical quality is essential in astrophotography for several reasons:
-
Clarity of Image: Higher optical quality ensures sharper and clearer images of celestial bodies. A telescope with superior optics minimizes aberrations and distortions, resulting in images that are more accurate representations of what is observed.
-
Light Transmission: Good optical systems allow more light to enter the telescope, which is crucial for capturing faint objects like distant galaxies and nebulae. High-quality glass and coatings enhance light transmission, improving the overall brightness and color fidelity in your photographs.
-
Color Accuracy: Optical quality affects the chromatic performance of a telescope. With better optics, color fringes are reduced, offering true-to-life representations of stars and planets. This is vital for capturing the subtle hues in celestial bodies.
-
Resolution: High optical quality improves resolution, enabling photographers to distinguish between closely spaced objects. This is particularly important in crowded regions of the sky where galaxies or star clusters may be tightly packed.
Investing in a telescope with superior optical quality will significantly enhance the astrophotography experience, yielding stunning images of the universe.
Which Telescope iPhone Adapters Are Highly Rated by Users?
The best telescope iPhone adapters are praised for their compatibility, ease of use, and ability to enhance astrophotography experiences.
- Smartphone Telescope Adapter by Gskyer: This adapter is highly regarded for its sturdy construction and universal compatibility with most smartphones.
- Universal Smartphone Adapter by Celestron: Known for its versatility, this adapter works well with a wide range of telescopes and offers a secure grip on various phone sizes.
- Orion SteadyPix Telescope Smartphone Holder: Users appreciate this adapter for its stability and ease of adjustment, making it ideal for long observation sessions.
- Photomate Smartphone Telescope Adapter: This option is favored for its lightweight design and quick setup, allowing users to capture images without hassle.
- Astromania Smartphone Telescope Adapter: Highly rated for its innovative design, it allows for precise alignment and is compatible with a variety of eyepieces.
The Gskyer adapter features a robust design that ensures your phone remains securely in place while you capture stunning images of celestial objects. Its universal compatibility makes it a favorite among amateur astronomers who use different telescope brands.
The Celestron adapter stands out for its ability to fit most smartphone models, thanks to its adjustable clamp mechanism. Users appreciate the ease of installation and the secure hold it provides while allowing for quick adjustments during observations.
Orion’s SteadyPix holder is designed for stability, which is crucial for long exposure astrophotography. Its adjustable arm allows you to position your phone perfectly over the eyepiece, ensuring sharp images without shakes or vibrations.
The Photomate adapter is lauded for its lightweight and portable design, making it easy to carry on trips. Its user-friendly setup process allows even beginners to start capturing photos of the night sky with minimal effort.
Astromania’s adapter is recognized for its clever design that allows for precise adjustments and fits a broad range of eyepieces. This adaptability, combined with its solid construction, makes it a popular choice for serious astrophotographers.
What Features Make a Telescope iPhone Adapter Stand Out?
The best telescope iPhone adapters are distinguished by several key features that enhance usability and image quality.
- Compatibility: The best adapters are designed to fit a wide range of iPhone models and telescope types, ensuring a secure and stable connection. This versatility allows users to easily switch between different devices without needing multiple adapters.
- Stability and Durability: High-quality adapters are made from robust materials that provide stability while minimizing vibrations during use. This is crucial for achieving clear, focused images, especially when observing celestial objects that require steady viewing conditions.
- Ease of Use: An intuitive design with simple setup instructions makes the adapter user-friendly, allowing even beginners to attach their iPhones quickly. Features like adjustable clamps and quick-release mechanisms can further simplify the process of aligning the camera with the telescope’s eyepiece.
- Lens Alignment: Adapters that come with adjustable alignment features ensure that the iPhone camera can be perfectly centered over the telescope’s eyepiece. This alignment is essential for capturing high-quality images without vignetting or distortion.
- Optical Quality: The best telescope iPhone adapters maintain optical integrity, allowing for clear and sharp images. Some may include additional optics or coatings that minimize light loss and enhance contrast, improving the viewing experience.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact designs make it easy to carry the adapter on trips or stargazing excursions. A good adapter should be easy to pack and transport without adding significant bulk to your gear.
- Affordability: While quality is important, the best adapters also offer good value for money, balancing performance with cost. Users should look for adapters that provide reliable performance without breaking the bank.
How Do Prices Vary Among Top Telescope iPhone Adapters?
Adapter D is perfect for newcomers to astronomy or those who wish to use a telescope infrequently. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, although users may find the lack of advanced features limits its functionality.
Adapter E’s integration with a smartphone app offers a modern twist on traditional telescope adapters, allowing users to not only capture images but also access additional resources like star maps and tracking tools. This makes it particularly appealing to tech-savvy astronomy enthusiasts.
What Benefits Does a Telescope iPhone Adapter Offer for Stargazing?
- Convenience: Using an iPhone adapter allows for easy attachment of your phone to the telescope, making it simple to capture images or videos of the night sky without complicated setups.
- Image Quality: The adapter enables you to take advantage of your iPhone’s camera capabilities, often resulting in high-quality images of stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena.
- Real-Time Sharing: With an iPhone adapter, you can instantly share your findings on social media or with friends, allowing for immediate engagement and discussion about your stargazing experience.
- Guided Astronomy Apps: Many astronomy apps can be utilized alongside the adapter, providing real-time information about celestial objects, making it easier to locate and identify stars and planets.
- Hands-Free Operation: The adapter allows for hands-free observation, freeing up your hands to adjust the telescope or take notes while still being able to observe and capture images.
The convenience of using an iPhone adapter means that you can quickly set up your phone with the telescope, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the night sky rather than dealing with complicated equipment. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not have extensive experience with telescopes.
In terms of image quality, modern iPhones come equipped with powerful cameras that can capture detailed images. By using an adapter, you can leverage these capabilities to photograph events such as lunar eclipses or planetary alignments, which would be difficult to capture with the naked eye.
Real-time sharing is another significant advantage, as it allows you to connect with a community of fellow stargazers. You can upload your observations and images directly to platforms like Instagram or Facebook, fostering a sense of connection and engagement with others who share your interests.
Guided astronomy apps enhance the experience by providing educational content and interactive star maps, making it easier to navigate the night sky. These apps can help you learn about the objects you are observing and even alert you to upcoming astronomical events.
Finally, the hands-free operation offered by the adapter means that you can multitask while observing. This feature is particularly useful during long stargazing sessions, where adjusting the telescope or taking notes can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of astronomy.
How Can You Optimize Your Setup for Astrophotography Using an iPhone Adapter?
To optimize your setup for astrophotography using an iPhone adapter, consider the following components:
- Quality Telescope: A high-quality telescope is essential for capturing detailed images of celestial objects. Look for telescopes with good optics, stable mounts, and suitable focal lengths that can enhance the clarity and brightness of the images you capture with your iPhone.
- iPhone Telescope Adapter: The best telescope iPhone adapter securely attaches your iPhone to the eyepiece of the telescope. This adapter should provide a snug fit, be easy to adjust for different eyepiece sizes, and allow for precise alignment to ensure that your phone’s camera is perfectly positioned to capture images without vignetting.
- Stability Accessories: Using a sturdy tripod or mount helps stabilize your telescope when capturing images. Vibrations can blur your photos, so any additional stabilizing tools, such as counterweights or vibration suppression pads, can make a significant difference in image quality.
- Astrophotography Apps: Leverage specialized astrophotography apps that can help you control the camera settings on your iPhone, such as exposure time and ISO. Some apps also provide features for stacking images, which can enhance detail and reduce noise in your final photos.
- Proper Lighting Conditions: Choose optimal times for astrophotography, typically during new moons or when the sky is clear of light pollution. Planning your sessions around these factors will improve your chances of capturing clearer and more vibrant images of the night sky.
- Image Processing Software: Post-processing your images can significantly enhance their quality. Software like Adobe Lightroom or specialized astrophotography tools can help you adjust contrast, brightness, and color balance, allowing you to transform your raw captures into stunning images.
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