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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
53
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
Can you use these filters on slower telescopes? But for people who own fast (f2-f3) and slow telescopes (f5-f6), would be nice to avoid purchasing both, the "normal" ones and the highspeed..
Question by: Jose Lausuch on Aug 2, 2022 9:42:00 AM | 1 Answer(s)
This new generation of Baader CMOS-filters features:
CMOS-optimized Baader Filters
Increased contrast
Ever more narrow passbands
Reflex-Blocker™ coatings, for largest ever freedom from halos, even under most adverse conditions concerning aux-optics
FWHM on each filter category carefully designed to allow for 1:1:1 exposures, matched for typical CMOS quantum efficiency and s/n ratio
Identical filter thickness to existing standards, with utmost care for parfocality
Blackened edges all around, with filter-lead-side-indicator in the form of a black frontside outer rim, to additionally eliminate any reflection due to light falling onto the edge of a filter
Each filter coated individually, with sealed coating edge (NOT cut out of a larger plate with coatings left exposed, read more)
Life-Coat™: evermore hard coatings to enable a non-aging coating for life – even in a most adverse environment
Further information, test reviews, image results...
Don´t be misled.
These all new CMOS-optimized filters work magnificently with all existing digital camera technologies, be it CMOS or CCD. However – an owner of CCD-camera-technology will still find our previous, extremely affordable, narrowband filter technology to be fully apt for excellent imaging. But: "the Better always is enemy to the Good".
We have received the following question on our Narrowband (and f/2 Highspeed) filters:
I understand that narrow-band filters suffer shifts of the passband for light rays that come in at...
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),...
See results
Here you can jump directly to customer images taken with CMOS-optimized Baader Filters
Update May 4th, 2022:
After many customer feedback about our CMOS-Optimized Narrowband filters, we learned...
A brief introduction to the function of narrowband filters.
Narrowband filters have revolutionized CCD photography and now more and more image acquisition with CMOS cameras for the “amateur astronomer” in...
In contrast to H-Beta (see the blog post on the 5.5nm H-Beta filter), there have long been options on the market for OIII filters that go beyond the filters marketed...
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“....
In the summer of 2021 I approached Baader Planetarium to ask whether I could test the new Baader O-III Narrowband-Filters (6.5nm) – CMOS-optimized
(various versions available)
to explore its visual...
During the last couple of months after introducing our new CMOS-optimized filter families, we have received lots of positive feedback from our customers.
However, there was an increasing number of...
A field report after photographic acquisition of five different celestial objects.
From Dr. Claus Possberg, Freyung Observatory (www.possi.space) – October 2022
The use of ultra-highspeed systems such as Celestron RASA,...
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.
The filter set everyone with an f3 system should own
Before Baader released these filters, astrophotographers who shot with f/3 systems had a predicament. The f/3 focal ratio is fast enough to blue-shift the incoming light to such a degree that you would lose a lot of signal as the emission band is no longer centred on the band pass. At the same time, f/3 is not so fast that you could use filters specifically pre-shifted for f/2 systems such as Rasa or HyperStar without running into the same issue on the other side of the band pass. So you basically had three choices.
The first option was to shoot with 7nm filters as they have a wide enough band-pass to accommodate for the blue-shift. This is not an ideal solution as the whole point of owning a fast system is to maximise your signal-to-noise ratio and reduce integration time (ignoring aperture size as the majority of astrophotographers are limited by seeing and guiding rather than by diffraction). Why bother paying for a fast system and struggling with collimation and tilt if you could get a similar SNR shooting with 3nm filters on a slower system?
The second option would be to try your luck with 5nm or 3nm filters anyway. This would usually result in an even worse SNR than shooting with 7nm filters due to the blue-shift.
The last option is to order custom made filters from Chroma which are specifically pre-shifted for f/3 systems. This is what you’d probably do if you were shooting with a PlaneWave Delta Rho or Officina Stellare Veloce but I didn’t even bother enquiring with Chroma how much this would cost as I’d probably have to sell my car to pay for them.
By coming out with these f/3 filters, Baader have done a great service for the astrophotography community by enabling people who own f/3 systems to finally get the most out of their setup. I own a Sky-Watcher Quattro 200P with a Starizona Nexus and as soon as I found out these filters existed I knew I had to have them. When it comes to performance, they blow my 7nm ZWO filters out of the water. I’ve never owned Chroma or Astrodon filters but I struggle to see how they could perform too much better than these Baaders. Halos are very minimal for my particular setup. Although I did observe halos when shooting Sirius, I saw no halos at all on a 10-minute sub-exposure of Alnitak.
Below I’ve attached two 3-minute sub-exposures (cropped) of NGC 3576 shot in Bortle 5 skies during similar moon phases. One was taken with a ZWO 7nm HA filter and the other was taken with the Baader 3.5nm HA filter. I don’t think I need to specify which is which. The difference is night-and-day. The Baader has significantly more contrast and detail in the nebulosity thanks to the narrower band pass letting in half of the light pollution. Even the stars appear tighter with the Baader filter although I admit my collimation was slightly off for exposure taken with the ZWO filter.
These filters are definitely a must-have for anyone shooting with an f/3 system.
Nothing else like them on the market
Including individual spectrograph measurements with each filter sold with further boost buyer confidence.
Thank you most kindly for your (unsolicited and unexpected) endorsement! We really appreciate your opinion.
Actually we were forced to go that route. It was a somewhat "sobering experience", when early in summer 2021 we proudly presented the all new CMOS-optimized (Ultra-) Narrowband/Highspeed Filters and had to learn that indeed this "f/3 filter-gap" can only be addressed in all decency by creating a new f/3 filter category - for the Ultra-Highspeeds only. And obviously you are aware about the prices elsewhere, where such a set of f/3 centered filters must be ordered as a special product.
We absolutely agree that it may bring additional trust, to include a protocoll with each filter. And please be assured that we DO measure each and every Narrowband-filter here in house, not just for the correct transmission and preshift, but also for the absence of halos. We discussed this protocoll issue multiple times, but the administrational effort is so time consuming that filter prices would have to rise considerably. We do suspect that the prices of some noteworthy competitors are so much higher than ours for this very reason.
In the end we must try to offer the most competitive prices for our products and better rely on the trust that our customers may give us, based on our 57 years of company history. We are all humans and may make mistakes. but in case this happens we are here to help and won´t run away...