Similar to their standard Quark, Daystar Filters designed the Combo Quark H-Alpha Eyepiece Solar Filter for use with f/15 to f/30 refractors, Schmidt-Cassegrain, or Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes. For those who use off-axis energy rejection filters (ERFs) a 2° off-axis snout adapter is included for proper light-path alignment to ensure the correct filtration and produce the best images.

This all-in-one hydrogen-alpha filter is engineered to eliminate unnecessary components which reduced the size and weight, and enabled it to fit in a compact form factor that simply inserts into 1.25″ or 2″ diagonals and accepts 1.25″ eyepieces. This design enables the use of nighttime telescopes for solar viewing. It is tuned specifically for viewing chromosphere details. The chromosphere’s surface structure behaves differently in active regions than quiet areas, where magnetic field lines are stronger, so viewing this portion of the sun provides a constantly-changing observational experience.

While there are no OTA aperture limitations, Daystar recommends the use of front-mount energy rejection filters. On Schmidt OTAs aperture-reducing off-axis ERFs are recommended, while Maksutov or refractors can be used with full-apertures ERFs. The filter is powered via a micro-USB port, and Daystar includes a power cord and an AC adapter to meet the high-power requirements of 5 VDC 1.5A. To enable its use at home and abroad, a set of international outlet plugs is provided with adapters for the US, UK, EU, and Australia.

Hydrogen-alpha bandpass

Integrated 25mm blocking filter

21mm clear filter aperture

Tuned to 0.5-0.3Å for viewing chromosphere details

Tuning knob allows for ±0.5Å wing shift for Doppler-shift compensation

Markers at every 0.1Å for reference and repeatability

Internal baffles increase contrast

Optical coatings designed specifically for 656nm H-alpha wavelength

LED indicators for power, warming, ready, and fault

Use and Handling

2° off axis 1.25″ front adapter for use with off axis Schmidt and Maksutov energy rejection filters

Fits 1.25″ diagonals and drawtubes

Accepts 1.25″ eyepieces

Brass compression ring to protect eyepiece from scratches

Recommended OTA Specifications

No aperture limitation

For use with f/15-f/30 refractors, or Schmidt and Maksutov-Cassegrain OTAs

Maksutov OTAs with a focal ratio of up to f/15 can be used at full aperture, but must use a front-mount ERF to prevent overheating the OTA

Schmidt OTAs must use an off-axis aperture reduction ERF

Full-disk viewing on refractors up to 1800mm focal length

Not for use with full aperture Schmidt-Cassegrain OTAs – damage to secondary mirror may result

Power

5 VDC, 1.5A micro-USB port

90-240 VAC wall adapter

Set of international outlet plugs for US, UK, EU, and Australia