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Archive for September 2023

Higher contrast for comet hunters: C2 Swan Band filter

September 29 2023, Stefan Taube

CS-Band-Filter

German manufacturer, Baader, has produced a new filter for 511 and 514 nanometre spectral lines which is available to fit both available filter thread sizes:

These Swan Band emission lines, which are named after their discoverer, are produced by carbon. They make up the majority of a comet’s gas tail in the visible spectrum. The filter only allows light from these two carbon wavelengths to pass through and blocks the ever-present light pollution. Structures within a comet’s gas tail, therefore, become more pronounced even in good observing conditions.

At the same time, it blocks the 501 nanometre OIII spectral lines. This increases contrast and makes it easier to distinguish comets with gas tails from comets with dust tails.

Both C2 Swan Band filters belong to Baader’s new CMOS-optimised filters:

The remote-controlled eagle – PrimaLuceLab Eagle

September 5 2023, Bengt Lindqvist

A comprehensive, intuitive to use WiFi and remote-control unit, no matter where, how, or what you need to control. No other system offers such a wide range of configurations, regardless of whether it is for controlling a camera, focuser motor, automatic flatfield box, or even the rotator. Operate two imaging devices simultaneously? It’s happy to help. Various connection options are available depending on the Eagle model you choose. The entire power supply runs via the Eagle and can therefore also be controlled and regulated. Tilt angle and motion sensor, absolutely no problem. From the Eagle 5 version onwards, these functions are fully available to you, not to mention the Eye sensor, which permanently measures the quality of the sky in the direction that your telescope is pointing. Windows or IOS – sure thing! N.I.N.A. or SharpCap, but of course! Put simply: if your preferred software is Windows-compatible, then the Eagle also supports it, without restrictions. It’s an open platform for the end customer.

Special features of the Eagle LE

You’re not keen on a Sesto Senso 2 motor focuser, and would rather work with a device of your own choosing? Happy to oblige. You will be able to connect it to the Eagle. In addition, you can use any software you choose. There are no limits here. We’ve all been there before. The camera freezes and will not deliver an image, what now? Pull out the plug? But let’s do that digitally. You can switch the Eagle and/or USB ports on or off remotely which can be tremendously helpful in tricky situations.

Even CPU-intensive image processing can be carried out on the fly thanks to powerful processors and a large memory, piggybacked on the imaging device of course! A full-feature, controllable Windows computer that leaves nothing to be desired, apart from the external power supply. 12 volts are required (max. 16 amperes), no matter whether power supply, power bank, or battery, and probably also the only downside. GPS, inclinometer, or even a humidity sensor; for the correct choices, depending on your requirements and setup, the following function and overview list should be a huge help. Should you still be unsure, our consultants will be happy to help you by telephone or e-mail.

Eagle series features

Key features depending on the Eagle model

  • WiFi – wireless connection
  • Ethernet – wired control
  • Remote On/Off – external access to turn the Eagle on and off
  • Remote On/Off USB – External access to turn the USB ports on and off
  • GPS sensor – location detection
  • Eye sensor – to monitor sky quality
  • Inclinometer
  • Motion detector
  • DARK mode– disables all LEDs on the Eagle
  • Industrial grade SSD/RAM
  • ECCO2– optional module to control dew heater temperature For automatic real-time monitoring, over and above the standard Eagle functions, equipped with a humidity sensor and an air pressure sensor.

Up to 40% discount for curious people: entry-level microscopes for your hobby

September 1 2023, Marcus Schenk

Why not immerse yourself in the world of the microcosm this autumn? You can save up to 40% in September and October with our new promotion on entry-level microscopes.

Whether you already have some experience in microscopy, or are a complete newcomer: the microscopes in our promotion offer you everything you need. With precise optics, easy handling, and versatile functions.

The different types included in the offer

Biological microscopes are suitable for students and beginners who want to dive deep into biological structures. Binocular reflected light microscopes are ideal for coin and mineral collectors and for any larger objects you want to examine in more detail. Maybe you are a detectorist and want to take a closer look at your treasures. LCD microscopes have a screen that allows you to view your objects comfortably – without having to look through an eyepiece. Hand-held microscopes are a good choice if you are in a hurry. You will find models from this wide range included in our offer.

So, grab your new microscope at a special price – the offer is valid until 31.10.2023 or as long as stocks last.

The iOptron GEM28 on special offer in September

September 1 2023, Jan Ströher

The summer is coming to an end and in most places the holiday season is also almost over… but there are still reasons for us to look forward to the coming autumn, astronomically speaking. Firstly because it gets dark earlier, which means we have longer nights for our hobby, and secondly because the GEM28 mounts from iOptron are available at affordable prices in our special September promotion – and the full range is available from stock! The GEM28 is perfect for mobile astrophotography. It can carry up to 13kg, but its compact design and low weight means that it can be taken almost anywhere. Compared to iOptron’s centre-balanced CEM mounts, the GEM series is a classic equatorial mount featuring the latest technology and a slim design. The GEM28 has been on the market for around two years, and enjoys great popularity among both astrophotographers and visual observers who are looking for a very good EQ5-class mount.

GEM28 GoTo iPolar LiteRoc

You can save a lot of money in September on these GEM28 models:

As always, the following applies to this offer which ends on 30 September: the items included in the offer are available from stock only while stocks last!

(Promotion period 01 to 30 September 2023)