Baader Solar Continuum Filter 1¼" (double stacked)
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What's the actual size of your 2" filters in "mm" with and without frame/ring? What step down adapter is suggested from a 52 mm to "-- mm"?
Question by: Waqas Ahmad on Oct 10, 2016 7:54:00 PM | 1 Answer(s)
What are the threads and pitch of your 1.25" and 2" filters?
Question by: Anders G. on Sep 20, 2017 12:55:00 PM | 1 Answer(s)
Rating of Question
52
Our 1.25" filters have a M28.5 male (and M28.5 front female) thread / our 2" filters have a M48 male (and M48 front female) thread
Both thread sizes come with our proprietary pitch - which is not the same for the female and male threads.
This is our own proprietary "emergency solution" for uniting a world were manufacturers all over the world copy from each other - to the point that there are almost a dozen different pitches in use for male and female threads. Traditionally US-companies used to do a UNF-based pitch and the rest of the world went for metric threads - but these do vary from 0.5 to 0.75.
For this reason it does not make sense to publish our non standard pitch because our pitch is made to cope with all existing metric and US-pitch standards - and as said - our solution has evolved from sheer necessity. It is a mixture of a queer pitch and under-/over-dimensioning . We will not want to declare this as a standard and get bashed up for it. It works for us and is a result of 20 years adaptation to fit our filters onto all crazy threads we have seen. And inspite of this - every now and then there comes another "dragonboat-eyepiece" were even our filters may not fit...
Answer by: Baader Web Team (Admin) on Sep 22, 2017 1:43:00 PM
I have an Old version Baader Herschel Prism that I use with a refractor. Is the 1,25" doublestack solar continuum filter compatible with this combo? If it's possible, how shoud be positioned the DS-SContinuum filter in my combo?
Does the 1,25" DS-SContinuum filter substitutes the 2" SContinuum filter of the Hersschel Prism?
Question by: Jose Lumbreras on Nov 26, 2021 1:22:00 PM | 1 Answer(s)
Rating of Question
-15
You can use the 1,25" double stack Continuum filter by installing it in the eyepiece filter thread. There is no need to remove the 2" continuum filter before using the 1,25" double stack, maybe this even increases the contrast. But you can also remove it. But always be careful when observing the sun, exchanging filters a.s.o. that no unfiltered light enters your eye!
Answer by: Baader Web Team (Admin) on Nov 26, 2021 3:21:00 PM
I have an older Solar Continuum filter (purchased in 2013) and an UV/IR block filter increases the image quality with the monochrome cameras I am using, probably because of the IR-leak of the Solar Continuum filter.
I am planning to buy the double stacked version, do I still need an additional UV/IR block filter with the current version of these filters?
Question by: Zoltan B. on Oct 6, 2021 2:45:00 PM | 1 Answer(s)
Rating of Question
-20
The stacked SCF will not require to add an additional blocker.
Answer by: Baader Web Team (Admin) on Oct 7, 2021 8:35:00 AM
With my Baader Solar Continuum Filter 1¼" (double stacked), I get a kind of "double image", both visually and photographically. Is this normal? How could this effect be avoided?
Do you plan to sell a 2" version?
Thanks,
Jesús
Question by: Jesús Navas on Jan 22, 2020 4:40:00 PM | 1 Answer(s)
As for your second question: A 2" double-stacked Solar Continuum (or K-Line) Filter unfortunately is not possible, because it would require a much larger filter cell than our normal cells.
Answer by: Baader Web Team (Admin) on Jan 23, 2020 10:55:00 AM
Baader Narrowband Filers in sizes 1¼", 2", 50.4mm and 50x50mm
Double Stacked Solar Continuum Filter - For Visual and Photographic Observations of the Sun
Ensures highest contrast in the photosphere of the sun. The filter works as a monochrometer - suppressing the effects of the atmospheric turbulence and results in images that are significantly sharper. Owners of SCTs and refractors will benefit as red and blue wavelengths are completely excluded, with the transmission area peaking at 535nm where telescope optics are sharpest and free from chromatic aberrations.
Important Information for Solar Observing
The Solar Continuum Filter may be used for purely VISUAL observation ONLY in conjunction with the Baader Herschel Prism or with the Baader AstroSolar® Safety Film 5.0. The supplied AstroSolar® Photo Film 3.8 is for photographic use only and MUST NOT be used for visual observations.
The combination of AstroSolar® Photo Film 3.8 and Solar Continuum filter is used exclusively for photography of the sun at high magnifications. This combination is highly apt to capture the finest solar surface detail and granulation at extremely high magnification while enabling ultra-short exposure (measured in milliseconds) in order to freeze atmospheric turbulence.
Customer Examples:
Three sample images, taken by Olivier Grattepanche. Mr Grattenpanche writes:
Instrument: "TSC 225 Schmidt-Cassegrain from TAKAHASHI, NJP160 mount, F/40 with 2X Big Barlow Tele-vue, NGFs focuser, and of course your incredible Baader Astrosolar® filter D:3.8, IR cut filter and Continuum filter"
VestaPro with 1/3" black and white sensor ...
... 800 frames stacked with IRIS ...
... Colors were added afterwards for aesthetical purpose
The purpose of an Energy Rejection Filter is to prevent as much solar energy as possible from entering the telescope in the first place and thus avoid excessive heating of...
APF-R goes online as official plugin in Adobe Photoshop
Christoph Kaltseis is a Photoshop expert and an experienced astrophotographer. In recent years, he has developed APF-R (Absolute Point of Focus),...
March 2021: The idea behind the visual use of blue filters from RGB palettes is that they have much higher transmittances in the blue value and steeper curve slopes than...
The moment you insert any type of filter into the optical setup, which consists of your specific camera, the appropriate flattener/reducer or coma corrector and the telescope, the filter becomes...
About Baader Filters
The variety of uses for filters in amateur astronomy has considerably increased during the last decade, enabled by both more accurately manufactured optical accessories, and, above all, by the “digital revolution“....
What do you look for in an astronomical filter? Everyone has different requirements and goals and with a myriad of filters available today; how do you choose the right filters...
What do you look for in an astronomical filter? Everyone has different requirements and goals and with a myriad of filters available today; how do you choose the right filters to unleash the full potential of Astrophotography?
In this blog our customer Ian Aiken gives some high level advice on what to look for when choosing a filter, coupled with reasoning why he choose the Baader's CMOS-Optimized LRGBand Ultra Narrowband f/2 filters, along with example LRGB and SHO images taken with these filters on his Celestron RASA 11 from his Bortle 7 suburban location.
Blog Post by Ian Aiken:
I live in the North East of England in the United Kingdom, which experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Cloudiness can vary throughout the year and it feels like I only get 20 usable clear nights per year at my Bortle 7 location during the 6 months where astronomical darkness actually occurs. I've been an Astrophotographer for over 20 years and I've had all kinds of telescopes, mounts, filters (including Optolong, Astro Hutech, Chroma, Baader) and cameras (Atik, QHYCCD, ZWO, Canon) in this time, for both planetary and deep sky photography. Financially, I've learnt the hard way through fine tuning my current collection to something which supports my sky conditions, budget, time, and imaging goals.
Currently I own a Skywatcher EQ8 mounted in my roll off roof observatory. On this I have a RASA 11 with Baader UFC, QHY268M camera and Baader's CMOS-Optimized LRGB and Ultra-Narrowband f/2 filters.
Here are the factors I've considered when choosing my filters:
Price: Assess the price of the product in relation to its features, quality, and performance. Is the price reasonable and competitive compared to similar products in the market? Consider whether the product offers significant advantages or unique features that justify its price.
In my opinion, Baader filters are absolutely value for money. They've kept the price competitive and performance high. A set of Baader filters costs a little more than a single Chroma. Chroma are good, but did not feel value for money in comparison (Baader 2" LRGB set ~ € 500 vs. Chroma LRGB ~ € 2.238).
Quality: Examine the quality of the product. Does it meet your expectations in terms of durability, craftsmanship, and overall build quality? A product that is well-made and built to last will provide better long-term value.
Baader CMOS-Optimized filters come with Baader Planetarium's Life-Coat technology. Baader warrant the coatings for the life of the filter guaranteeing that the coatings will not peel, flake or physically degrade and they have no issues with you cleaning the filters with fine optical cleaning equipment. You can see the build quality is high, the coatings look durable, and I can understand how Baader can offer such a life time warranty. I don't think anyone else offers this.
Performance: Evaluate how well the product performs its intended function. Does it deliver the expected results or fulfil your requirements? Consider its efficiency, accuracy, reliability, and any additional benefits it provides compared to alternative options.
I'm going to post some images later in this blog, and you can judge the quality for yourself. Yes, there were initial problems with halos and these have been resolved. I haven't had any issues that I am concerned about. Halos can be a real pain, and it's not always the filter that causes this (most cases it is not the filter). Reflections can occur in your imaging system and could be caused by a number of factors: including spacing between optical elements; distance to CMOS camera; the CMOS camera front window itself etc. You have to spend time to understand your entire optical system and its individual nuances.
Features and Specifications: Review the features, specifications, and capabilities of the product. Are there any unique or advanced features that differentiate it from competing products? Determine whether these features are essential to your needs and whether they justify the price.
I opted for high-speed ultra-narrowband to match with my RASA 11. This was based upon my needs (explained a bit further below). In terms of features, what stood out was the features integrated into the filters to help prevent reflections and halos. For instance:
Reflex-Blocker - with coatings to reduce halos caused by my imaging system.
Parfocal - this helps to not have to refocus so much during a filter change. As a filter change is manual on my RASA 11 with the Baader UFC system, it means less movement with my motorised focuser and I am back to imaging quicker (and the focuser isn't off on some mission to reach focus by going further out of focus, which can happen when using an SCT type design).
Blackened edges - again to help reduce reflections in my imaging system, lots of mirrors and glass = high potential for reflection
Sealed Coating Edge - each filter is coated individually and not cut from a sheet. This is probably why they will last forever, and Baader are able to offer Life-Coat warranty.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews: Research the brand's reputation and customer reviews of the product. Look for feedback from other customers who have used the product to gain insights into its performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Positive reviews and a strong brand reputation can indicate better value for money.
Baader Planetarium have been in business since 1966. I've never experienced any poor customer care from dealers or Baader directly (I admit, I've not really had any issues either, with exception of one issues with the early Baader Steeltrack software which was swiftly resolved by Baader themselves). As a family run business, I feel they are passionate with what they do, and want to do the right thing at the right price, making astronomy accessible to all budget types, and truly are Aiders in Astronomy (this is their slogan).
Longevity and Future Compatibility: Consider the product's longevity and future compatibility. Will it remain relevant and usable for a reasonable period? Assess whether the product is upgradable or compatible with future advancements or technologies to ensure its value over time.
I have the older Baader 2" CCD filters which are in the same condition that I purchased them in. I have no concerns about the longevity of the Baader CMOS Optimised filters, especially backed by the Life-Coat warranty. 2" filters are going nowhere, and while the sensors on modern CMOS cameras are getting larger, I cannot see the need to upgrade anytime soon. I've been using 2" filters for the past 20 years.
Warranty and Customer Support: Evaluate the warranty offered by the manufacturer and the availability of customer support. A reliable warranty and responsive customer support can provide additional value by offering peace of mind and assistance in case of any issues or defects.
Baader offers Life-Coat, a lifetime warranty on their CMOS-Optimized filters (providing used and handled correctly). As a family run business operating for over 50 years, Baader are trustworthy and offer great customer support.
Personal Needs and Preferences: Finally, consider how well the product aligns with your specific needs, preferences, and intended use. Different products may cater to different requirements, so it's essential to choose one that best suits your circumstances and priorities.
What did I choose?
I decided on the Ultra Narrowband High-Speed filters on my RASA 11. Why? Well, the reasoning may surprise you. While the filters are excellent value for money, my garden backs onto other gardens and my neighbours have lots of LED lights lit, especially on weekends when it's not windy, the moon is not out, and the sky conditions are good. You can picture the challenges already. Also, there are trees which do not belong to me which get in the way. I work full time, and have two small children, time is limited. I'm middle-aged, but not retired, so I cannot stay up all night imaging into the early hours. So, I went for a RASA for high speed imaging, reducing my imaging time significantly. While I may image across multiple nights, I don't need to. It just works for my current situation. The Baader filters are brilliant on the RASA 11, and I'm able to produce some excellent results (see further in the blog) even with all my challenges.
I hope the above helps you make a decision on what filters would be good for your needs. Baader Planetarium has a really nice tool to help you match which filters would be best for your imaging system. At time of writing you can access this tool: Baader Narrowband-/Highspeed Filter Selector
Example of Astrophotography taken with Baader CMOS Optimized Filters
I could talk about how tight the stars are (they are), how the filters have much more contrast than their predecessors (they do), but this can still be very subjective and influenced by sky conditions. My skies aren't great, they really aren't, and I have to battle with all the other issues living in a suburban environment. These images were also shot in reasonably poor conditions with thin haze. I also have to point out that I don't spend a massive amount of time processing my images. I think partly, if you capture good data you can produce a good image. You don't, in my opinion, need to push an imagine in processing so that it looks so bright and colourful. To me this looks over processed, and I prefer the darker looking style images with simple histogram and curves transformations. There's the disclaimers out of the way.
My workflow consists of using PixInsight to Calibrate, Stack, Automatic Background Neutralisation, BlurXterminate, NoiseXterminate, and maybe StarXterminate. I may use TGV Denoise post stretching but haven't on these examples. I simply use the ScreenTransferFunction (STF) in PI applied to the Histogram, and a hint of Curves Transformation before exporting off into a PNG/JPG. There's probably so much more I could do, but I don't. Oh, I nearly forgot. I do use PhotometricColorCalobration in PixInsight, which applies a white balance to the image.
NGC 7023 - The Iris Nebula 2 hour integration from Bortle 7 sky
NGC 7023, also known as the Iris Nebula, is a captivating and visually striking celestial object located in the constellation Cepheus. This reflection nebula lies approximately 1,300 light-years away from Earth, and its unique features have made it a favourite target for amateur and professional astronomers alike. The Iris Nebula gets its name from the distinct shape and appearance of its central region, which resembles an iris or an eye. This prominent feature is created by a dense cloud of interstellar dust, which scatters and reflects the light emitted by nearby stars. The dust particles in the nebula also create intricate dark filaments, adding to its overall visual allure. At the heart of NGC 7023 lies a young star cluster, illuminating the surrounding gas and dust with its intense radiation. This interaction gives rise to the vibrant hues of blue and yellow seen in many astro photographs of the nebula.
Imaging System: QHY286M CMOS Camera mounted on RASA 11 with Baader UFC. Filters: Baader CMOS Optimised LRGB Mount: Skywatcher EQ8 Exposure Details: 30 x 60 seconds each channel (LRGB). Total 2 hours integration time from Bortle 7 skies.
NGC 7635 - The Bubble Nebula 17 Hour Integration from Bortle 7 Sky
NGC 7635, famously known as the Bubble Nebula, is a captivating and visually stunning emission nebula located in the constellation Cassiopeia. Its unique structure and distinct appearance have made it a popular target for both amateur and professional astronomers. The Bubble Nebula derives its name from the spherical bubble-like structure at its center, which is created by the powerful stellar wind and radiation emitted by a massive, hot, and young central star. This star, known as BD+60 2522, is estimated to be several times more massive than our Sun and emits intense ultraviolet radiation, which ionizes the surrounding hydrogen gas. The ionized gas then emits light, creating the striking reddish glow seen in images of the nebula.
Imaging System: QHY286M CMOS Camera mounted on RASA 11 with Baader UFC. Filters: Baader CMOS Optimised 3.5/4nm f/2 Ultra Highspeed (Ultra-Narrowband) filters. Mount: Skywatcher EQ8 Exposure Details: Ha: 354x60s, SII: 121x60s & 104x120s, OIII: 175x120s. Total ~17 hours integration time from Bortle 7 skies.
Don't ask why the varying exposure! I'd also like to collect more data on SII and OIII in due course given it's about half of what I planned and need. You can tell by the images more is needed. Maybe next time, right? Astrophotography is for life not just for Christmas, or something like that…
I mixed the combination using PixelMath in PixInsight.
NGC 7635 - Baader f/2 3.5nm Ha CMOS-OptimizedNGC 7635 - Baader f/2 4nm OIII CMOS-OptimizedNGC 7635 - Baader f/2 4nm SII CMOS-OptimizedNGC 7635 - RGB/SHO Combination with StarsNGC 7635 - RGB/SHO Combination with Reduced StarsNGC 7635 - RGB/SHO Combination without StarsNGC 7635 - RGB/SHO Combination Crop
And finally to finish off, M45 taken with Baader CMOS-Optimized LRGB on same kits as above.
M45 taken with Baader CMOS-Optimized LRGB
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