Is there a self contained telescope pointing device that can fit on any telescope to point it to a star?

Yes — there are self-contained telescope pointing systems, but they come in a few different flavours depending on how “universal” and “self-contained” you want. The key term to look for is:

🔭 Digital Setting Circles (DSC) / Push-To systems

These are the closest match to what you’re describing.

They’re essentially a bolt-on “GPS for your telescope” that tells you where to push it.

✅ Best match: Standalone add-on pointing devices

⭐ Best overall (true add-on system)

What it does

• You attach encoders to both axes of your mount
• Do a quick 2-star alignment
• Then it tells you exactly how far to move in alt/az (or RA/Dec)

Why it fits your requirement

• Completely self-contained unit
• Works with almost any mount (Dobsonian, alt-az, equatorial—with kits)
• Can run standalone or link to apps like SkySafari

Reality check

• Not quite “clip-on in seconds” — you need encoder brackets fitted
• But once installed, it’s universal and very powerful

👍 Simpler / mid-range push-to system

• Uses encoders + smartphone
• Easier entry point than Nexus
• Less sophisticated but still very effective

📱 Alternative approach: plate-solving phone systems

⭐ Very easy but less universal

How it works

• Small camera or phone mount looks at the sky
• Plate-solves to determine where the telescope is pointing
• Guides or controls the mount

Catch

• Usually tied to specific mounts or brands
• Not truly universal without tinkering

🔧 The key limitation (important)

There is no completely universal, clamp-on, zero-install device that works perfectly on any telescope.

Why:

• The system needs to know the telescope’s orientation precisely
• That requires either:
  • Encoders on axes (DSC systems), or
  • Fixed geometry camera alignment (StarSense-style)

🧭 Low-tech alternative (surprisingly effective)

Some people use:

• Printed azimuth circle + digital inclinometer
• Or apps like Stellarium for live alt/az

It’s crude, but works — essentially a manual DSC.

🆚 Quick comparison

🧠 Bottom line

• Best “universal add-on” → Digital Setting Circles (e.g. Nexus)
• Easiest modern solution → StarSense-style plate solving
• Closest to your ideal → DSC + encoders (no escaping that requirement)