Astrophotography doesn’t have to mean hauling around bulky gear or mastering complex camera settings. With the right smartphone tripod, even first-time stargazers can capture stunning shots of the night sky—no telescope required.
In this post, we’ll look at three smartphone tripods that combine stability, portability, and smart design to help you turn your phone into a great tool for cosmic creativity.
Whether you’re chasing a stunning moonrise or snapping planets and constellations from your backyard, these picks make astrophotography feel effortless.
Why a Tripod Matters in Smartphone Astrophotography
Smartphones have come a long way in low-light photography, but even the best camera app can’t compensate for shaky hands under a starry sky. When it comes to astrophotography, stability isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Lets take a quick look at what makes smartphone tripods so important.
The Challenge of Night Sky Imaging
Capturing celestial objects like the moon, planets, or constellations often requires:
- Long exposure times to gather enough light
- Manual settings like ISO and shutter speed adjustments
- Precise framing to keep your subject centred
Any movement—even the subtle tremble of your fingers—can blur the shot or throw off the composition.
How a Tripod Solves This
A tripod transforms your smartphone into a steady, sky-facing camera. It:
- Eliminates motion blur by keeping the phone perfectly still
- Allows hands-free shooting with remote shutters or timer apps
- Enables creative angles like low horizon shots or vertical framing of constellations
Even a basic tripod can dramatically improve image clarity, especially when paired with manual camera apps.
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Popular Smartphone Tripods for Night Sky Photography
Smartphone tripods, designed for night sky photography, offer the stability and precision needed to capture the cosmos in crisp detail. Below are some of the most popular and well-reviewed options that combine portability, stability, and smart features.
‘JOBY Compact Light Kit’ : Designed for Smartphone Stargazers
The Joby Compact Light Kit has become an essential tool for anyone interested in capturing the night sky with nothing more than a smartphone.
Packing impressive features and functionality into a small package, this little powerhouse is all about making your astrophotography experiences smooth and rewarding.
Key Features
- Universal Compatibility: Works with smartphones, compact cameras, mirrorless systems, and even lightweight DSLRs (up to 1.5 kg).
- GripTight 360 Clamp: Adjustable phone holder fits devices 6.7–8.8 cm wide and includes dual cold shoe mounts—perfect for attaching a mic and light for night shoots.
- Ball Head Mount: Smooth 360° rotation and tilt for creative framing, whether you’re shooting in landscape or portrait.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: Weighs just 1.1 kg and folds down to 42.1 cm, making it ideal for hiking to remote stargazing spots.
- Carrying Bag Included: Makes transport easy and protects the tripod during travel
Performance For Night-Sky Photography
Stability – Locking levers on the legs provide a solid footing, even on uneven terrain. This makes the ‘Joby’ great for long exposure shots of stars or the moon.
Ease of Use – This tripod benefits from a quick setup with intuitive knobs and clamps. Users on Amazon praise its one-handed angle adjustments and secure phone grip.
Durability – The Acrylic build feels sturdy and reliable. It’s survived mountain hikes and outdoor shoots according to user reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Versatile mounting options for accessories
- Smooth ball head for precise adjustments
- Excellent value for the quality
Cons
- Some users may find the included bag a bit small
- Feet may slip slightly on hard surfaces during adjustment
Final Verdict
The JOBY Compact Light Kit is a top-tier choice for mobile astrophotographers who want a reliable tripod without the bulk.
It’s especially well-suited for capturing the night sky with a smartphone, offering the flexibility and stability needed for long exposures and creative compositions.
- DOMINATE THE WORLD OF CONTENT CREATORS: this full size tripod allows you not to compromise between comfort and quality, thanks to its DNA that has always distinguished JOBY products
- EASY AND DYNAMIC: A 1 / 4-20 “knob locking mechanism is included with the tripod for fast and creative storytelling
- MOBILE READY: the kit includes a GripTight 360 Phone smartphone clamp with double sled attachment suitable for smartphones with a width from 6.7 cm to 8.8 cm
- PROVEN: The locking levers at the base of the three legs allow the tripod to be transported easily and positioned precisely
- STURDY AND RELIABLE: this tripod with a capacity of 1.5 kg supports devices of all types, from smartphones to compact machines
‘UBeesize Tripod S’ : The Budget-Friendly Tripod That Delivers on Stability
If you’re just starting out in smartphone astrophotography or need a reliable tripod without breaking the bank, the UBeesize Tripod S is a very capable option.
Compact, flexible, and easy to use, it’s designed to support creative shooting in low-light conditions.
Key Features
- Flexible Octopus-Style Legs: Bendable legs wrap around poles, tree branches, or uneven surfaces, giving you freedom to shoot from almost any angle.
- Universal Phone Mount: Compatible with most smartphones, including larger models like iPhone Pro and Samsung Galaxy series.
- Wireless Remote Shutter: Included Bluetooth remote lets you trigger shots without touching your phone—ideal for long exposures and reducing camera shake.
- Lightweight & Portable: Weighs under 300g and folds down to fit in a small bag or backpack.
Performance For Night-Sky Photography
Stability – While it’s not built for heavy gear, this tripod holds smartphones securely and remains stable on most surfaces. Its grippy feet and flexible legs help anchor it even on rocky terrain.
Ease of Use – Setup takes seconds, and the remote pairs quickly with both iOS and Android devices. Adjusting angles is intuitive, though precise framing may require a bit of trial and error.
Versatility – Beyond astrophotography, it’s great for vlogging, time-lapses, and travel photography. The flexible legs make it easy to mount your phone in unconventional spots—like fence posts or tree limbs.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Flexible legs for creative mounting
- Wireless remote for hands-free shooting
- Lightweight and travel-ready
Cons
- Not ideal for windy conditions or uneven surfaces without support
- Limited height compared to full-size tripods
- Legs may wear out over time with heavy use
Final Verdict
The UBeesize Tripod S is a fantastic entry-level tripod for smartphone astrophotographers.
While it won’t replace a full-size rig for serious long exposures, it offers enough stability and flexibility to help you capture the night sky with ease.
For casual stargazers and mobile content creators, it’s a smart, budget-friendly choice that punches above its weight.
- 【Tripod & Selfie Stick Set】Do you want to take selfies, but also take photos/videos with excellent stability while freeing your hands? UBeesize brings you our all-in-one professional combo to take you to the next level. Perfect for selfies, group photos, adventure trips, YouTube videos, podcasts, Facebook Live, Facetime, Instagram, live streaming.
- EXTRA LONG FOR MORE POSSIBILITIES Extendable from 17.5″ to 51″ (longer than average), combined with 180° neck rotation and 360° head rotation to find your best shooting angle, now you can get more people or background into your selfies and take photos from previously impossible angles.
- Wireless Remote Control The pocket bluetooth remote control allows you to take selfies or group photos easily from a distance of up to 30 feet. Compatible with most smartphones. No app to download.
- Wide Compatibility Universal phone holder fits most smartphones with or without a case, compatible with phones such as Galaxy S9/S9 Plus/Note 8/S8/S8 Plus/S7 Edge/J7, Google Pixel, Samsung, Huawei. With a universal 1/4″ screw, it is suitable for digital cameras, DSLR, SLR, action cams, GoPro, webcam, camcorder.
- What You Get: 1 x Tripod Selfie Stick; 1 x Universal Phone Holder; 1 x GoPro Adapter; 1 x Bluetooth Remote Shutter
‘Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod’ : Pocket-Sized Stability for Stellar Shots
The Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod is a sleek, ultra-portable tripod that punches well above its weight. Designed in Italy and built with premium materials, it’s a favorite among mobile photographers, vloggers, and stargazers who want reliable support without the bulk.
Key Features
- Push-Button Ball Head: Allows quick, intuitive angle adjustments. Press to unlock, release to lock—perfect for fast framing under changing light.
- Universal ¼-Inch Screw Mount: Compatible with smartphones (via clamp), compact cameras, mirrorless systems, and entry-level DSLRs up to 1 kg.
- Compact & Lightweight: Weighs just 190g and folds down to 13.5 cm—ideal for travel, tabletop setups, or spontaneous night sky shoots.
- Rubberized Feet: Provide grip and stability on smooth or uneven surfaces.
- Optional Smartphone Clamp: Securely holds phones up to 8.4 cm wide, even with cases. Includes dual thread mounts for vertical or horizontal shooting.
Performance For Night-Sky Photography
Stability -The PIXI Mini keeps smartphones and small cameras impressively steady, including on uneven surfaces. This makes it a reliable choice for capturing short long-exposure astrophotography shots without unwanted blur or shake.
Ease of Use – The push-button ball head is a standout feature—fast, smooth, and reliable. It’s great for adjusting angles during stargazing sessions.
Versatility – The PIXI Mini doubles as a handheld grip for video or vlogging. Works well on benches, walls, or tables when shooting low-angle night scenes.
Pros
- Premium build quality with aluminum and technopolymer
- Intuitive ball head mechanism
- Stylish and compact—fits in a jacket pocket
- Excellent for tabletop astrophotography and travel
Cons
- Limited height—best used on elevated surfaces
- Ball head may struggle with heavier DSLR setups
- No telescopic legs for extended reach
Final Verdict
The Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod is a beautifully designed, reliable companion for smartphone astrophotographers who value simplicity and style.
While it won’t replace a full-size tripod for deep-sky imaging, it’s perfect for capturing moonrises, constellations, and creative night compositions from urban rooftops or remote benches.
If you want a tripod that’s as elegant as it is functional, this one’s a great choice.
- Product 1: VERSATILE: Close the legs to use it as a comfortable grip to capture videos that stand out from the crowd
- Product 1: DSLR COMPATIBLE: Thanks to the universal 1/4 Inch screw thread and stability, Pixi can be used with a huge variety of digital devices, the iPhone (with KLYP), compact cameras, CSC and even entry level DSLR’s
- Product 1: SAFE: When the button is released, the ball is locked automatically in the selected position
- Product 1: COMPACT: The ideal solution for photographers searching for a lightweight, portable and easy-to-use support system
- Product 2: Holds smartphone with widths of 60mm – 104mm
Learn how to capture stunning night sky images with your phone in our guide Smartphone Astrophotography Made Easy
Capture the Cosmos—No Telescope Required
Astrophotography doesn’t need a telescope or a studio setup—just your smartphone, a solid tripod, and a clear night sky.
Whether you’re chasing moonrises or framing constellations from your garden, these tripods turn casual stargazing into frame-worthy magic.
So why not get yourself set up. Wrap up warm, step outside, and let your phone do what it was never meant to—capture the universe.
