The 5nm Chroma H-alpha Filter strikes the perfect balance between precision and versatility for astrophotography. With its 5nm bandwidth centered on the H-alpha emission line at 656.3nm, this filter provides exceptional contrast and detail while maintaining a wider passband for increased light throughput, making it ideal for capturing faint nebulosity in less-than-perfect conditions.

Crafted with superior optical coatings and premium materials, the Chroma 5nm filter minimizes reflections and halos, ensuring sharp, high-quality images. It is optimized for fast optical systems and performs brilliantly under both light-polluted and dark skies. Durable and weather-resistant, this filter is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use in any imaging environment.

Whether you're an advanced astrophotographer or just stepping into narrowband imaging, the 5nm Chroma H-alpha Filter offers the perfect combination of clarity, performance, and flexibility to bring your deep-sky images to life.

The 3nm Chroma H-alpha Filter is the pinnacle of precision for astrophotography, designed to deliver unmatched contrast and detail for capturing deep-sky objects. Its ultra-narrow 3nm bandwidth isolates the H-alpha emission line at 656.3nm with exceptional precision, effectively eliminating light pollution and other unwanted wavelengths, even in challenging imaging conditions.

Engineered with state-of-the-art coatings and superior optical quality, this filter minimizes halos, reflections, and ghosting, providing crisp, artifact-free images. Ideal for use with fast optical systems, the Chroma 3nm filter excels in revealing the intricate structures of emission nebulae and other faint targets. Its robust, weather-resistant build ensures consistent performance, whether you're imaging in a remote observatory or under urban skies.

For astrophotographers seeking the highest level of detail and contrast, the 3nm Chroma H-alpha filter is the ultimate tool to unlock the beauty of the universe.

SBIG AFW Filter Wheels are fast and quiet, and are designed to be compatible with our full line of SBIG cameras.  Two size formats are available:

Large Format AFW wheels are ultra-thin, minimizing back focus distance. The standard version, which accommodates filters ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm thick, uses only 0.55″ (14 mm) back focus. The tall version, which accommodates 5 mm thick filters, uses only 0.65″ (16.5 mm) back focus.

Compact Format AFW wheels are a lower-cost option for our compact Aluma CCD and STC-428 cameras.  For users needing more filter slots, an adapter is also available to interface our compact format cameras to a Large Format AFW-16-36R.

SBIG AFW Filter Wheels are fast and quiet, and are designed to be compatible with our full line of SBIG cameras.  Two size formats are available:

Large Format AFW wheels are ultra-thin, minimizing back focus distance. The standard version, which accommodates filters ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm thick, uses only 0.55″ (14 mm) back focus. The tall version, which accommodates 5 mm thick filters, uses only 0.65″ (16.5 mm) back focus.

Large Format AFW wheels are compatible with all SBIG cameras using our “STX” style adapter plates.  This includes our popular Aluma AC Advanced CMOS models as well as our legacy STX and STXL models.

Large Format AFW wheels can also be used on our compact cameras using our AFW to Small Format Camera Adapter.  This option provides more filter slots than our Compact Format wheels.

Compact Format AFW wheels are a lower-cost eight filter slot option for our compact Aluma CCD and STC-428 cameras.  They also work with most legacy STF and STT models.

Multiple Versions Available

• AFW-16-36R Large Format
  • 16 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-16-36RT Tall Large Format
  • 16 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm thick filters
• AFW-12-50R Large Format
  • 12 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-10-50SQ Large Format
  • 10 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Square Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm thick filters
• AFW-10-50ST Tall Large Format
  • 10 Filter Slots
  • 50 mm Square Filters
  • Accommodates 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm thick filters
• AFW-8-36R Compact Format
  • 8 Filter Slots
  • 36 mm Round Filters
  • Accommodates 3 mm thick filters
  • Lower cost option for compact cameras

Stackable

Two Lage Format AFW wheels can be stacked to add even more filter slots, using the available Dual AFW Filter Wheel Adapter.  “Virtual Slots” can be assigned, which map to different slots on the two wheels.  If you leave one slot empty in each wheel you get almost double (less two) available filter slots.  If you sometimes need to stack filters then you can have even more virtual slots.

Fast Operation

AFW wheels switch filters quickly, requiring just 1 second to change to an adjacent slot.  They can slew in either direction, but when stopping they always approach the filter slot in the same direction to ensure repeatability.  If the requested slot is on the far side of the carousel the maximum transition time is approximately 5 seconds.

Improved Filter Compatibility

Large Format AFW supports the most popular filter sizes, convenient spacers are included:

• 3 mm filters – do not use spacer
• 2 mm filters – align notches in spacer with mounting screws
• 1 mm filters – flip over spacer so notches face the filter
• 5 mm filters – AFW-10-50ST only – adds tall spacers and mounting screws

The lower-cost Compact Format AFW supports 3 mm thick filters.

Easy Installation

The AFW series filter wheels are designed to be quickly installed onto the camera without removing the carousel.  Removing a single access cover provides access to the filter slots and camera mounting screws. Large Format AFW can be installed without removing filters; the Compact Format will require one filter to be removed.

For the Large Format AFW wheels, two mounting screws are “captive” under the carousel, and can be accessed by turning the carousel by hand to align access holes with the screw heads.  The two remaining screws are freely accessible.  This makes installation and removal quick and easy.

For the Compact Format AFW wheels, the two mounting screws under the carousel can be accessed through a filter slot by gently moving the carousel off-center.

Once the wheel is attached to the camera, a single cable is connected to the camera’s AUX port. This single cable provides all necessary power and control functions.

Dual Wheel Support

For those users requiring more filters, the AFW Large Format series wheels include the ability to control two filter wheels. The filter wheels can be stacked using our AFW Dual Adapter. A matching three-port low profile cable is included to connect the two wheels to the camera’s control port.

Currently software support is available via an Aluma AC series camera and MaxIm LT or MaxIm DL Pro software.  Alternatively, the dual wheel can be controlled via our SBIG USB to Filter Wheel Adapter using its associated ASCOM driver.

The software allows you to configure “virtual” filter slots, that map to specific slots on wheel 1 and wheel 2.  Usually one slot is left blank in each wheel, allowing you to select filters from one wheel or the other.  It is also possible to arrange for two filters to be used per slot, depending on your requirements.

With one blank slot in each wheel, a pair of AFW-10-50SQ wheels allow you to use 18 filters.  Similarly a pair of AFW-12-50R wheels will allow you to use 22 filters, and a pair of AFW-16-36R wheels will allow you to use 30 filters.

StarChaser Autoguider and AO Compatibility

Large Format AFW series wheels are compatible with SBIG StarChaser SC-4, providing self-guiding in front of the filters.  They also work with our popular AO-X Adaptive Optics unit, providing the tightest possible star images.

Compact Format AFW wheels are compatible with SBIG StarChaser SC-4C, providing self-guiding in front of the filters.  They also work with our popular AO-8A Adaptive Optics unit.

Large Format Camera Model Compatibility

Please note that when smaller filters are used they may vignette larger sensors.  Compact models will require the AFW to Small Format Camera Adapter.  Some cameras will require an 11066 cable adapter.  Some older products are not electrically compatible and need to use the USB-FW adapter.

Small Format Camera Model Compatibility

The lower-cost Small Format AFW-8-36R is compatible with all small format cameras, including Aluma CCD and STC-428.  It is also compatible with legacy models including STF-8300, STF-4070, STF-8050, STF-1603, STF-3200, STT-8300, STT-1603, and STT-3200.

Additional compatibility notes:

STC-7 and STC-428-P:  The built-in filter wheel prevents the camera from controlling an external wheel.  Options are (a) to replace the built-in wheel with an STC-428-M front plate, or (b) stack the AFW on top and control the second wheel via a USB-FW adapter. The two wheels can be operated together using MaxIm DL’s Dual Filter Wheel feature.  ACC14 is required.

ST series:  Not officially supported.  Requires an ACC14.  May work directly with camera but this is not guaranteed, as ST cameras have not been tested with AFW.  If there is an issue controlling the wheel than a USB-FW adapter will be required.

STL series:  Not officially supported.  The built-in filter wheel prevents the camera from controlling an external wheel. It is possible to attach an AFW wheel to the STL using the ACC10 STL to StarChaser Adapter and use a USB-FW to control it.  Since STL also has an internal filter wheel the combination is best supported using MaxIm DL’s Dual Filter Wheel feature.

Colour eyepiece filters are essential for observing the moon and planets. They effectively reduce glare and light scattering, improve contrast through selective filtration, and enhance definition and resolution.

Bintel's filters are constructed with top-notch, uniform glass and are coated to minimize reflections and ghosting. They are threaded to fit 1.25" eyepieces and provide a generous 26mm clear aperture.

#12 Yellow Filter

The #12 yellow filter enhances Jupiter’s cloud bands, particularly the lighter zones and the Great Red Spot, improves Mars' surface details, such as polar ice caps and dust storms, and sharpens contrast on the Moon, highlighting the maria and highlands.

#15A Dark Yellow Filter

The #15A dark yellow filter improves contrast on Jupiter's cloud belts, especially in the darker equatorial regions and the Great Red Spot, reveals surface features on Mars such as ridges and valleys, and enhances the details of lunar craters and shadows along the terminator.

#21 Orange Filter

The #21 orange filter helps define the atmospheric cloud structures on Jupiter and Saturn, enhancing features like the Great Red Spot and Saturn’s cloud bands, sharpens the visibility of Mars’ dust storms and polar ice caps, and brings out lunar surface details, particularly in shadowed areas.

#23A Light Red Filter

The #23A light red filter enhances the contrast of surface features on Mars, such as ice caps, dust storms, and topography, improves the visibility of Jupiter’s cloud belts and storms like the Great Red Spot, and highlights the Moon’s surface features along the terminator, including craters and maria.

#29 Dark Red Filter

The #29 dark red filter significantly enhances the contrast of Mars’ surface features like its ice caps, dust storms, and valleys, brings out darker regions and bands in Jupiter's atmosphere, and improves lunar contrast, especially in low-light areas and the terminator.

#38A Dark Blue Filter

The #38A dark blue filter enhances Jupiter’s cloud details, especially the lighter and darker zones and the Great Red Spot, improves the visibility of cloud layers on Saturn, and helps to bring out surface features such as the polar ice caps as well as dust storms on Mars by enhancing atmospheric contrasts.

#47 Violet Filter

The #47 violet filter brings out atmospheric features on Jupiter, such as cloud bands and storm systems, enhances the visibility of cloud layers on Saturn, and improves the contrast of Venus' upper atmosphere, revealing subtle cloud structures and atmospheric patterns.

#58A Dark Green Filter

The #58A dark green filter increases contrast in Jupiter’s cloud bands and atmospheric details, such as the Great Red Spot and polar regions, enhances Saturn’s ring details and cloud structures, improves the visibility of Mars’ surface features like polar ice caps and dust storms, and sharpens Venus’ cloud patterns.

Saxon Cielo HD eyepieces feature a wide 60 degree field of view for clear and well-corrected images. With extra low-dispersion glass and six elements, the Cielo HD series guarantees high performance. All seven Cielo HD eyepieces sport 16mm of comfortable eye relief, making them easy on the eye. What's more the twist up eyecups make it easy to switch between eyepieces in the Cielo HD range, making it a versatile and reliable choice for any stargazing adventure.

After years of R&D we have developed a new solar film that has the optical quality of glass with the advantages of impregnated polymer. Will never develop pinholes or scratches that can let in light and ruin a filter. Other advantages: lightweight and does not require re-balancing tube assembly, will not break, consistent yellow-orange solar image, even density with any aperture, flat surface compared to other thin film filters that have wrinkles and creases. Will not tear or puncture. Stronger than any other solar film on the market. Also available in sheets. Guaranteed 15 years.

What Size Do I Order?

The Chroma Technology R-Bessell Filter is a precision-crafted astronomical filter designed for photometric research and astrophotography. Built to meet the stringent standards of the Bessell photometric system, this filter isolates the red (R) band, providing accurate data for scientific observations and vivid imagery of celestial objects.

Featuring advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the R-Bessell filter offers exceptional transmission in the red spectrum while minimizing out-of-band interference. It is ideal for capturing the rich hues and intensities of stars, nebulae, and galaxies, ensuring reliable photometric measurements and breathtaking astrophotographic results.

Engineered for durability and consistent performance, the Chroma R-Bessell Filter resists environmental wear, maintaining its precision across diverse imaging conditions. Whether used for detailed photometric analysis or enhancing your astrophotography workflow, this filter is an indispensable tool for delivering accurate and high-quality results in the red band.

The Chroma Technology V-Bessell Filter is a high-precision astronomical filter specifically designed for photometric studies and astrophotography. Adhering to the Bessell photometric system's specifications, this filter isolates the visual (V) band, enabling accurate measurements and stunning visual representations of celestial objects.

Engineered with advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the V-Bessell filter ensures optimal transmission in the visual spectrum while effectively blocking out-of-band light. It is particularly suited for capturing the true brightness and color of stars, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena, making it a valuable tool for both scientific research and astrophotographic imaging.

Crafted for reliability and durability, the Chroma V-Bessell Filter withstands environmental challenges and delivers consistent performance across various observing conditions. Whether you're conducting detailed photometric analyses or enhancing your imaging setup, this filter provides exceptional accuracy and clarity in the visual band, making it an essential component for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The Chroma Technology B-Bessell Filter is a precision-engineered astronomical filter tailored for photometric applications and astrophotography. Designed to meet the standards of the Bessell photometric system, this filter isolates the blue (B) band, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection for scientific observations and vivid imaging of celestial objects.

With advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, the B-Bessell filter offers exceptional transmission in the blue band while effectively suppressing out-of-band light. This makes it ideal for capturing the true colors and intensities of stars, galaxies, and other deep-sky objects, ensuring high-fidelity photometric measurements and visually stunning results.

Built for durability and consistent performance, the Chroma B-Bessell Filter is resistant to environmental wear and designed to perform under a range of imaging conditions. Whether you're conducting precise photometric studies or enhancing your astrophotography, this filter is an essential tool for achieving accurate and high-quality results in the blue spectrum.

The Chroma Technology U-Bessell Filter is a high-precision astronomical filter designed to meet the rigorous requirements of photometric observations and astrophotography. It adheres to the Bessell photometric system's specifications, isolating the ultraviolet (U) band for capturing accurate data in scientific studies and delivering stunning images of celestial objects.

This filter is crafted with premium materials and advanced multi-layer dielectric coatings, ensuring exceptional transmission in the U-band while minimizing unwanted light from adjacent bands. Its precise spectral profile makes it ideal for measuring the ultraviolet emission from stars, galaxies, and other astronomical objects, enabling astrophotographers and researchers to gather accurate color and intensity data.

Durable and reliable, the Chroma U-Bessell Filter resists environmental degradation and delivers consistent performance under various imaging conditions. Whether you're conducting photometric studies or enhancing your imaging setup, this filter is an indispensable tool for achieving accurate and high-quality results in ultraviolet astronomy.

Dark Filter 1.25 inch

Our 1,25" (M28,5) filters fit perfectly in all 1,25" (M28,5) filter wheels of the brands ZWO, QHY, QSI, Starlight Xpress, SBIG, Moravian and Atik.

The orientation of the filter in the filter wheel does not matter. It does not change the optical performance.

Dark Filter 2 inch

Our 2" (M48) filters fit perfectly in all 2" (M48) filter wheels of the brands ZWO, QHY, QSI, Starlight Xpress, SBIG, Moravian and Atik.

The orientation of the filter in the filter wheel does not matter. It does not change the optical performance.

Dark filter 31mm

Our 31mm filters fit perfectly in all 31mm filter wheels of the brands ZWO, QHY, QSI, Starlight Xpress, SBIG, Moravian and Atik. The design with protective ring and blackened filter edges prevents stray light, the filters are mechanically protected and easier to handle.

The orientation of the filter in the filter wheel does not matter. It does not change the optical performance.

Dark filter 36mm

Our 36mm filters fit perfectly in all 36mm filter wheels of the brands ZWO, QHY, QSI, Starlight Xpress, SBIG, Moravian and Atik. The design with protective ring and blackened filter edges prevents stray light, the filters are mechanically protected and easier to handle.

The orientation of the filter in the filter wheel does not matter. It does not change the optical performance.

The Astronomik SII-CCD filter is a narrow-band-filter for CCD photography.The filter lets the light of the ionized sulfur (SII) pass, and blocks nearly the whole remainder of the visual spectrum as well as IR, in which the CCD is sensitive.

The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 12nm is optimal suitable for common CCD cameras and allows the use of very fast optics. The range of application extends from 1:2.8 to 1:15. Transmission losses and chromatic distortions, which arise with other filters, only occur with Astronomik filters when extremely bright aperture ratios of 1:2 and more come into play. It should be noted, that the filter has a transmission of up to 99%.

Another advantage of the 12nm filters is the good availability of guiding stars for cameras with a built-in-autoguider (SBIG). If you use a very strong filter like our 6nm filter you often won't find a usable guidestar.

The Astronomik SII CCD filter increases the contrast between objects, in this case between those with SII emission lines and the skyglow background. Also, our Astronomik SII-CCD filter completely suppresses the emission lines of artificial lighting (mercury (Hg) and sodium (Na)) and skyglow.

Main use

The Astronomik SII CCD increases the contrast between objects, in this case between the SII emission line and the skyglow background. Our Astronomik SII CCD completely suppresses the emission lines of artificial lighting (mercury (Hg) and sodium (Na)) and skyglow. Due to the high optical quality of the Astronomik H-alpha-CCD substrate you will see the same needle-sharp stars as you would from your regular telescope.

Other uses

• Using the new H-alpha-CCD and the new SII-CCD filters you can obtain three-color images of emission line objects (gas nebulae) from locations with very strong light pollution. To do so, you would take an image in three different wavelengths, select each one as a color-channel in Photoshop and paste them together as one single color image.
• If you plan to create color images from emission line data, our CLS-CCD filter is a great choice for the Luminance channel.

Suitability

• Visual observation (dark skies): Unsuitable
• Visual observation (urban skies): Unsuitable
• Film photography: It depends, but very long exposure times
• CCD photography: Very good, huge contrast enhancement at S II-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (original): Unsuitable
• DSLR photography (astro modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at S II-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (MC modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at S II-emission nebulas
• Webcam / Video (Planets): Unsuitable
• Webcam / Video (Deep Sky): Unsuitable

Technical Data

• typ. transmission of 95% at both SII lines (671,7nm und 673,0nm)
• Complete blocking of all disturbing wavelength ranges in the infrared
• Parfocal with other Astronomik filters
• Glass thickness: 1mm
• Completely resistant against high humidity, scratches and aging effects
• Diffraction limited, the filter will not reduce the optical performance of your telescope!
• Astronomik filters are delivered in a high-quality, long lasting, filter box
• Since 2008 we do ship filters with a completely new design. Any kind of halo or strange reflection is a matter of past

The Astronomik H-alpha filter is a narrow band filter for CCD photography. The filter lets the H-alpha light of emission nebulae pass and blocks nearly the whole remainder of the spectrum where the CCD is sensitive.

The full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 12nm is optimized for the use with common CCD cameras and allows the use of very fast optics. It should be noted that the filter has a transmission of up to 99%.Another advantage of the 12nm filters is the availability of guiding stars for cameras with a built-in-autoguider (SBIG). If you use a very strong filter like our 6nm filter you often won’t find a usable guidestar.The range of application extends from 1:2.8 to 1:15. Transmission losses and chromatic distortions, which arise with other filters, only occur with Astronomik filters when extremely bright aperture ratios of 1:2 and more come into play.

Main use

The Astronomik H-alpha-CCD (12nm version) increases the contrast between objects, in this case between the H-alpha emission line and the skyglow background. Our Astronomik H-alpha-CCD (12nm version) completely suppresses the emission lines of artificial lighting (mercury (Hg) and sodium (Na)) and skyglow.

Other uses

• When using the OIII CCD and the SII-CCD filters you can obtain three-color images of emission line objects (gas nebulae) from locations with very strong light pollution. To do so, you would take an image in three different wavelengths, select each one as a color-channel in Photoshop and paste them together as a color image.
• The Astronomik H-Alpha filters may NOT be used for solar observation.
• If you plan to create color images from emission line data, our CLS-CCD filter is a great choice for the Luminance channel.

Suitability

• Visual observation (dark skies): Unsuitable
• Visual observation (urban skies): Unsuitable
• Film photography: Reasonable, but very long exposure times
• CCD photography: Very good, huge contrast enhancement at H II-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (original): Good, reduced sensitivity in the H-alpha band
• DSLR photography (astro modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at H II-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (MC modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at H II-emission nebulas
• Webcam / Video (Planets): Unsuitable
• Webcam / Video (Deep Sky): Good, good contrast enhancement with bright objects

Technical Data

• typ. transmission of more then 95% at the H-alpha line (656nm)
• Complete blocking from all disturbing wavelengths in the infrared
• Parfocal with other Astronomik filters
• Glass thickness: 1mm
• Completely resistant against high humidity, scratches and aging effects
• Diffraction limited, the filter will not reduce the optical performance of your telescope!
• Astronomik filters are delivered in a high-quality, long lasting, filter box
• Since 2008 we do ship filters with a completely new design. Any kind of halo or strange reflection is a matter of past

All  Astronomik Filters are perfect for modern cameras, including both CMOS and CCD based cameras, allowing you to capture the very best images possible with your instruments. Sharpness, contrast and the absence of any reflections is guaranteed.

Each and every Astronomik filter has to pass a complex quality control process before being suitable for delivery to our customers. Each and every emission line filter is measured with a high-end Perkin-Elmer spectral-photometer to make sure that every single filter is up to the specifications published on our website.

On the back of each filter-box you will find a label that details the precise sensitivity and band pass measurements for that individual filter inside the box: You will see the max transmission and the recommended range of focal ratio were the filter will give you the best performance.

Thus Astronomik OIII CCD filter is a narrow band emission-line-filter for CCD photography. The filter lets the light of double ionized Oxygen of emission nebulae pass and blocks nearly the whole remainder of the spectrum where the CCD is sensitive.

The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 12 nm is optimal suitable for common CCD cameras and allows the use of very fast optics The optimal aperture ratio for the use of the filter is 1:3 to 1:15 with apertures of more than 6" (150mm). It should be noted that the filter has a transmission of up to 99%, which cannot be attained by stacking more narrow-band filters. A further note, which led to selecting the half width (FWHM), is the dark current of common CCD imagers. Exposures with a CCD cooled to -15°C are limited by the dark current of the CCD, even in large cities with a bright background.

Another advantage of the 12 nm filter is the better availability of guiding stars for cameras with a built-in-autoguider (SBIG). If you use a very strong filter like our H-alpha 6nm filter you often won’t find a usable guidestar.

Together with our other three Astronomik emission-line filters you can do great color images even from very light polluted places!

Main use

The Astronomik OIII CCD increases the contrast between objects, in this case between the OIII emission line and the skyglow background. Our Astronomik OIII CCD completely suppresses the emission lines of artificial lighting (mercury (Hg) and sodium (Na)) and skyglow. Transmission losses and chromatic distortions, which arise with other filters, only occur with Astronomik filters when extremely bright aperture ratios of 1:2 and more come into play. The filter has a built-in IR-blocker up to 1150nm. You don’t need an additional IR-blocker with this filter.

Other uses

• When using the Astronomik OIII CCD filter togther with the H-alpha, OIII CCD and the SII CCD filters you can obtain three-color images of emission line objects (gas nebulae) from locations with very strong light pollution. To do so, you would take an image in three different wavelengths, select each one as a color-channel in Photoshop and paste them together as one single color image.
• If you plan to create color images from emission line data, our CLS CCD filter is a great choice for the Luminance channel
• The OIII CCD is also great for visual observation. If you plan to get filters for visual observation and for astrophotography get the CCD filter: You may use this filter visual as well as in front of you camera. The built-in IR-blocker doesn’t disturb visual observation but you need an additional IR-blocker if you want to use the visual filter with your camera.

Suitability

• Visual observation (dark skies): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• Visual observation (urban skies): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• Film photography: It depends, very long exposure time
• CCD photography: Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (original): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (astro modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• DSLR photography (MC modified): Very good, huge contrast enhancement at O III-emission nebulas
• Webcam / Video (Planets): Unsuitable
• Webcam / Video (Deep Sky): Reasonable, if light pollution is a big problem and OIII Objects are beeing observed

Technical Data

• typ. 95% transmission at 496nm (OIII)
• typ. 95% transmission at 501nm (OIII)
• full width at half maximum 12nm
• transmission from 494nm to 506nm
• Parfocal with other Astronomik filters
• Glass thickness: 1mm
• Completely resistant against high humidity, scratches and aging effects
• Diffraction limited, the filter will not reduce the optical performance of your telescope!
• Astronomik filters are delivered in a high-quality, long lasting, filter box
• Since 2008 we do ship filters with a completely new design. Any kind of halo or strange reflection is a matter of past

Ideal addition to the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 742 for imaging the moon and planets, with telescopes larger then 10" (250mm) when the seeing is poor.

This filter is an ideal complement to the ProPlanet IR 742 for use with converted DSLR cameras, CCD cameras and Webcams. The effects of seeing are distinctly reduced. It is your entry into previously unknown dimensions of photography of the moon and the planets.

The ProPlanet IR 807 only allows infrared light with wavelengths of more than 807 nm to pass. In this wavelength range the effects of seeing are significantly lower than in the visible spectrum of the human eye. This allows much sharper images than are usually obtained from your device and location. Another advantage is that the sky background of advanced dawn is dark and even allows photography of planets and moon at daylight.

Main use

The Astronomik ProPlanet IR 807 cuts off the visible part of the spectrum and allows the light of wavelengths longer then 807nm to pass. Due to this behavior the part of the spectrum that is most sensitive to bad seeing is rejected. This approach does a big improvement to the imaging of planets and the moon. The image is more steady than the image in the visible light.

Other uses

• The Astronomik ProPlanet IR 807 is designed to be an addition to the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 742, if the seeing is extremely bad and a larger telescope is used.
• For most cameras the exposure times doubles, compared to the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 742 or imaging in visible light, if the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 807 is used.
• Darkens the background during twilight.
• Imaging of bright planets, stars and comets by day.
• Imaging of young stars in dust clouds and stellar nurseries.

Alternatives

If the seeing is not so bad or if the telescope is smaller than 10" (250mm) we recommend the use of the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 742.

Suitability

• Visual observation (dark skies): Unsuitable, the eye is insensitive at this spectrum
• Visual observation (urban skies): Unsuitable, the eye is insensitive at this spectrum
• Film photography: Unsuitable
• CCD photography: Reasonable, for special IR photography (as chlorophyll)
• DSLR photography (original): Unsuitable
• DSLR photography (astro modified): Unsuitable
• DSLR photography (MC modified): Good, for IR daylight photography, longer exposure time
• Webcam / Video (Planets): Very good, rejects problems with seeing, particularly with telescopes larger 250 mm aperture
• Webcam / Video (Deep Sky): Very good, rejects problems with seeing, particularly with telescopes larger 250 mm aperture

Technical Data

• more then 97% transmission for wavelengths of 807nm to 1100nm
• blocking of wavelengths between 350nm and 790nm
• Parfocal with other Astronomik filters
• Glass thickness: 1mm
• Completely resistant against high humidity, scratches and aging effects
• Diffraction limited, the filter will not reduce the optical performance of your telescope!
• Astronomik filters are delivered in a high-quality, long lasting, filter box
• Since 2008 we do ship filters with a completely new design. Any kind of halo or strange reflection is a matter of past

Ideal filters for the reception of the moon and planets, notably Mars, with telescopes from 6" (150mm) aperture.

The ProPlanet IR 742 only allows infrared light with wavelengths of more than 742 nm to pass. In this wavelength range the effects of seeing are significantly lower than in the visible spectrum of the human eye. This allows much sharper images than are usually obtained from your device and location. Another advantage is that the sky background of advanced dawn is dark and so the filter even allows photography of the planets and the moon at daylight.

Main use

The Astronomik ProPlanet IR 742 cuts off the visible part of the spectrum and allows the light of wavelengths longer then 742nm to pass. Due to this behavior the part of the spectrum that is most sensitive to bad seeing is rejected. This approach does a big improvement to the imaging of planets and the moon. The image is more steady than the image in the visible light with nearly identical exposure times.

Jupiter, imaged with L-RGB Filtern (left) and Astronomik ProPlanet 742 (right)

Comparing sharpness in IR-R-G-B at Saturn

Comparing L-RGB versus IR-RGB at Saturn

Other uses

• Besides astrophotography the filter allows you to get stunning results in nature photography. If an EOS-Clip Filter is used in an MC modified DSLR you get tremendous results imaging the flora. The filter cuts off the part of the spectrum where Chlorophyll looks green and shows its high reflectivety in the near infrared. If trees are photographed in spring and summer under blue skies you get stunning images with white trees and clouds in front of a near black background.
• Darkens the background during twilight.
• Imaging of bright planets, stars and comets by day.
• Imaging of young stars in dust clouds and stellar nurseries.

Alternatives

When the seeing is very bad and the instrument is 10" (250 mm) or larger, the Astronomik ProPlanet IR 807 may be the better choice.

The Astronomik ProPlanet 642 BP is the lastest addition to the family of Astromik ProPlanet IR-pass filters. The filter thrills because of it´s wide range of applikations for daylight IR-Photography, high-resolution lunar and planetary imaging and for taking beautifull and deep images of H-alpha regions when used for Astrophotography.

What does BP stand for ?

"BP" are short for "Bandpass": The filter gives you a 200nm spectral window from 642nm to 842nm. Contrary to the other two ProPlanet filters it blocks the longer infrared. Together with the Astronmik ProPlanet 742 and the ProPlanet 807 you can now have three choices to match your needs when imaging in the IR. The Astronomik ProPlanet 642 BP will be the right choice for the best image quite often!

The Astronomik ProPlanet 642 BP will give you three filters in one single product! Depending on your camera, the Astronomik ProPlanet 642 BP is a great tool either for daylight IR-imaging with your digital camera, or it will reduce seeing effects and enhance contrast when used for lunar- and planetary imaging, and third it will be a very good and low-priced H-alpha Filter for getting started in Deep-Sky Astrophotography of H-alpha regions.
Due to our skillfull developement with lot´s of tests we reached the goal to give you a filter which will do a perfect job to deliver amazing images.

Daylight IR-imaging:

• contrasty images with a great rendition of colors
• Clear "Wood-Effect" images
• Not Hot-Spot from longer IR!
• Short exposure times, about the same as normal VIS-imaging
• perfect choice for Infrared-Videos

High-resolution Lunar and planetary imaging:

• short Exposure times
• effective reduction of Seeing
• enhanced contrast
• no ghosts and best sharpness due to blocking the longer IR

Deep-Sky Astrophotography of HII regions:

• best transmission of the H-alpha line at 656nm
• about 40nm FWHM with astro-modified DSLRs
• amazing contrast under lightpolluted skies or moonlight
• low priced filter for getting started in H-alpha imaging
• easy focussing using camera display plus LiveView!

Guiding for Astrophotography:

• installing the 642BP in front of your autoguider-camera dramatically improves guiding quality, as image-motion from one frame to the next is minimized.

Technical Data

• more then 96% transmission for wavelengths of 642nm to 840nm
• blocking of wavelengths between 350nm and 630nm
• Parfocal with other Astronomik filters
• Glass thickness: 1mm
• Completely resistant against high humidity, scratches and aging effects
• Diffraction limited, the filter will not reduce the optical performance of your telescope!
• Astronomik filters are delivered in a high-quality, long lasting, filter box
• Since 2008 we do ship filters with a completely new design. Any kind of halo or strange reflection is a matter of past

Astronomik now offers you a range of three different UV+IR blockers as Luminance filters. The different spectral window of each new Luminance filters is designed to tune your setup to get the sharpest image from any optical design and any camera.

The Luminance channel is probably the most important for a great final image! You want as much signal as possible so the filter should have the highest transmission possible with a wide spectral bandpass. This combination provides the greatest sensitivity and gives you the highest photon counts on your pixels. While the high transmission level is a great aspect of the new Astronomik Luminance filters, not all optical instruments or additional optical elements like correctors, field-flatteners or reducers, have perfect colour correction so it can be the width of the spectral band pass of  the Luminance filter that can cause problems. A band pass that is too wide will allow the transmission of incompletely focused light (Chromatic aberration), making stars appear soft or bloated. In such cases image processing can become difficult, so having a slightly narrowed spectral window in your Luminance filter can reduce or eliminate this damaging effect.

To give you all the tools to gather the best data possible we have expanded our line of Luminance filters: Now you can select a Luminance filter perfectly matched to the kind of telescope you use, to get the highest signal and sharpest image for the Luminance channel!
Depending on the color correction of your scope you may use a wider spectral window for the Luminance data. The L1 filter has the widest spectral window, the L2 is about the same as our current L-Filter and the L3 is much narrower.
If you use an optical system that is completely free of any chromatic aberration you should get an L1 filter for your setup. For general use the L2 filter is well suited to most optical systems with a corrector, flattener or reducer in the optical train while the L3 filter is designed for users of refractors with a less-than-perfect color correction and in combination with the new Deep-Sky RGB filters, the L3 filter will minimise the problem of bluish halos around stars.

The transmission curve characteristics and coatings on the new Luminance filters have been designed and engineered in such a way that no halos or reflections will be visible. Even with bright stars in the field of view you will be able to reveal the faintest structures in nebulas or galaxies.

Like all Astronomik Filters, the new Luminance filters are made using an extremely durable and scratch resistant coating, deposited on the finest polished optical substrate, which is free of any striae or internal strains. All substrates are made to exactly the same thickness, so all of our filters are parfocal.

Additional note for observers working under light polluted skies:
If your observing site suffers from light pollution you should try to use our CLS-CCD as a replacement for the Luminance filter. The transmission curve of the CLS-CCD will give you approximately the same amount of energy in all three colour channels while blocking nearly all unwanted artifical light pollution. Customers who replaced the Lx filter with the CLS-CCD are amazed by the increased quality of their data. This small change gives you the opportunity to take much deeper images from your current observing site.

Astronomik now offers you a range of three different UV+IR blockers as Luminance filters. The different spectral window of each new Luminance filters is designed to tune your setup to get the sharpest image from any optical design and any camera.

The Luminance channel is probably the most important for a great final image! You want as much signal as possible so the filter should have the highest transmission possible with a wide spectral bandpass. This combination provides the greatest sensitivity and gives you the highest photon counts on your pixels. While the high transmission level is a great aspect of the new Astronomik Luminance filters, not all optical instruments or additional optical elements like correctors, field-flatteners or reducers, have perfect colour correction so it can be the width of the spectral band pass of  the Luminance filter that can cause problems. A band pass that is too wide will allow the transmission of incompletely focused light (Chromatic aberration), making stars appear soft or bloated. In such cases image processing can become difficult, so having a slightly narrowed spectral window in your Luminance filter can reduce or eliminate this damaging effect.

To give you all the tools to gather the best data possible we have expanded our line of Luminance filters: Now you can select a Luminance filter perfectly matched to the kind of telescope you use, to get the highest signal and sharpest image for the Luminance channel!
Depending on the color correction of your scope you may use a wider spectral window for the Luminance data. The L1 filter has the widest spectral window, the L2 is about the same as our current L-Filter and the L3 is much narrower.
If you use an optical system that is completely free of any chromatic aberration you should get an L1 filter for your setup. For general use the L2 filter is well suited to most optical systems with a corrector, flattener or reducer in the optical train while the L3 filter is designed for users of refractors with a less-than-perfect color correction and in combination with the new Deep-Sky RGB filters, the L3 filter will minimise the problem of bluish halos around stars.

The transmission curve characteristics and coatings on the new Luminance filters have been designed and engineered in such a way that no halos or reflections will be visible. Even with bright stars in the field of view you will be able to reveal the faintest structures in nebulas or galaxies.

Like all Astronomik Filters, the new Luminance filters are made using an extremely durable and scratch resistant coating, deposited on the finest polished optical substrate, which is free of any striae or internal strains. All substrates are made to exactly the same thickness, so all of our filters are parfocal.

Additional note for observers working under light polluted skies:
If your observing site suffers from light pollution you should try to use our CLS-CCD as a replacement for the Luminance filter. The transmission curve of the CLS-CCD will give you approximately the same amount of energy in all three colour channels while blocking nearly all unwanted artifical light pollution. Customers who replaced the Lx filter with the CLS-CCD are amazed by the increased quality of their data. This small change gives you the opportunity to take much deeper images from your current observing site.

Astronomik now offers you a range of three different UV+IR blockers as Luminance filters. The different spectral window of each new Luminance filters is designed to tune your setup to get the sharpest image from any optical design and any camera.

The Luminance channel is probably the most important for a great final image! You want as much signal as possible so the filter should have the highest transmission possible with a wide spectral bandpass. This combination provides the greatest sensitivity and gives you the highest photon counts on your pixels. While the high transmission level is a great aspect of the new Astronomik Luminance filters, not all optical instruments or additional optical elements like correctors, field-flatteners or reducers, have perfect colour correction so it can be the width of the spectral band pass of  the Luminance filter that can cause problems. A band pass that is too wide will allow the transmission of incompletely focused light (Chromatic aberration), making stars appear soft or bloated. In such cases image processing can become difficult, so having a slightly narrowed spectral window in your Luminance filter can reduce or eliminate this damaging effect.

To give you all the tools to gather the best data possible we have expanded our line of Luminance filters: Now you can select a Luminance filter perfectly matched to the kind of telescope you use, to get the highest signal and sharpest image for the Luminance channel!
Depending on the color correction of your scope you may use a wider spectral window for the Luminance data. The L1 filter has the widest spectral window, the L2 is about the same as our current L-Filter and the L3 is much narrower.
If you use an optical system that is completely free of any chromatic aberration you should get an L1 filter for your setup. For general use the L2 filter is well suited to most optical systems with a corrector, flattener or reducer in the optical train while the L3 filter is designed for users of refractors with a less-than-perfect color correction and in combination with the new Deep-Sky RGB filters, the L3 filter will minimise the problem of bluish halos around stars.

The transmission curve characteristics and coatings on the new Luminance filters have been designed and engineered in such a way that no halos or reflections will be visible. Even with bright stars in the field of view you will be able to reveal the faintest structures in nebulas or galaxies.

Like all Astronomik Filters, the new Luminance filters are made using an extremely durable and scratch resistant coating, deposited on the finest polished optical substrate, which is free of any striae or internal strains. All substrates are made to exactly the same thickness, so all of our filters are parfocal.

Additional note for observers working under light polluted skies:
If your observing site suffers from light pollution you should try to use our CLS-CCD as a replacement for the Luminance filter. The transmission curve of the CLS-CCD will give you approximately the same amount of energy in all three colour channels while blocking nearly all unwanted artifical light pollution. Customers who replaced the Lx filter with the CLS-CCD are amazed by the increased quality of their data. This small change gives you the opportunity to take much deeper images from your current observing site.