Baader Planetarium SolarSpectrum RG18 User manual

Manual
and Application Tipps
Thank you for your purchase of a SolarSpectrum H-alpha-lter with matching telecentric
system. The various SolarSpectrum-lter only differ in the lter size and their control unit,
so we describe them altogether in this manual.
This manual also describes the various telecentric systems which are used to match the
lter to different telescopes
For best results, we recommend that you spend a few minutes reading this manual befo-
re using the lters and telecentric systems.
SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter
Baader Planetarium
Telecentric Systems
– EN ver. 07/2023 –
BAADER PLANETARIUM
ZurSternwarte 4 •D-82291 Mammendorf •Tel.[phone]•Fax[phone]
www.baader-planetarium.com •[e-mail] •www.celestron.de
G
M
B
H

2Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Table of Contents
Quick Start .......................................................... 3
The SolarSpectrum Filters ............................................. 4
Solar Spectrum Observer Series 1,5 – 25 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å ......... 4
Solar Spectrum Advanced Solar Observer – 32 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å .... 4
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG18 – 18 mm clear aperture, 0,30Å .......... 5
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG32 – 32 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å....... 5
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG46 – 46 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å....... 6
Baader SunDancer II – 19 mm clear aperture, 0,6±0,1Å ...................... 6
Scope of delivery..................................................... 7
Choosing an Energy Rejection Filter ..................................... 8
The Telecentric System and Suitable Telescopes ........................... 9
The Telecentric Systems.............................................. 10
About Magnication and Working Distance of Telecentric Systems ............ 10
2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System # 2459257 ..................... 11
Telecentric System TZ-4 # 2459256..................................... 11
SunDancer II Telecentric System TZ-3S # 1363070......................... 12
SunDancer II Telecentric System TZ-4S # 1363080......................... 12
Additional Optical Accessories ........................................ 13
Eyepieces......................................................... 13
Maximizing the Field of View .................................................13
The Highest Magnification ...................................................13
Reducer .......................................................... 14
Star Diagonals ..................................................... 14
Getting started...................................................... 15
Example Adaptations................................................ 16
SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter example setup – complete system ....................16
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – visual use, M48-System ......17
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – visual use, T-2-System ........18
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – Bino-Viewer ...............19
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – for Photography without Reducer
20
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – for Photography with a Reducer21
Example Configuration for SunDancer TZ3-S, TZ4-S and SunDancer II H-alpha-filter.....22
Example Configuration for Baader FlipMirror II ...................................23
Determining the perfect Distances ..................................... 28
Cleaning and Maintenance............................................ 29
Tips for Observing the Sun............................................ 30

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 3
Quick Start
In this manual we will describe the possible congurations of your new SolarSpec-
trum lter in detail. In general, you will probably have talked with your dealer before
purchase, so that you will already have a set matched to your telescope. Then it is
easy to use it for observing the sun:
1. Place the Dielectric Energy Reecting Filter (D-ERF) on your telescope
2. Cover or remove nder scopes, guide scopes and other optics that may be present
on your telescope, or install suitable solar lters on them
3. Connect the telecentric to the H-alpha-lter
4. Connect the telezentric together with the H-alpha-lter at your telescope
5. Install star diagonal, eyepiece and extension tubes behind the H-alpha-lter
6. Connect the control unit to the H-alpha lter and connect it to the power supply.
The display shows how the lter is heating up until it reaches its operating tempera-
ture. The display either goes from negative values to 0 (= operating temperature), or
the two displays (current and target temperature) approach the same temperature –
depending on the controller used
7. Point the telescope at the sun and wait, until the lter has reached its operating
temperature. Wait a couple of minutes, until the whole lter is on the same tempe-
rature
8. Have fun!
Sample configuration of a SolarSpectrum H-alpha-filter
Attention: The H-alpha filter is sensitive to frost and must not be
stored below 0 °C. It may be used at temperatures down to -10 °C
as long as the heating element is active; we recommend to insulate
the filter at cold temperatures.

4Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
The SolarSpectrum Filters
Solar Spectrum Observer Series 1,5
25 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å
• Solar Observer Filter Serie 1,5: Standard-Filter
with a clear aperture of 25 mm. Shows the
full sun disc up to effective focal lengths of
approx. 2200 mm
• Different halfbandwidths available depending
on the model
• includes pre-installed adapter set:
• 2x 2" SolarSpectrum Universal Flange
# 2958240
• 1x 2"a to T-2i Reducer # 2958242
• 1x 2"a to T-2a Adapter # 1508035
• 2x T-2 T-2 Dust caps (# 2904000,
# 2904010)
• Power supply: 12V/5A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
• Requires a D-ERF front lter
Solar Spectrum Advanced Solar Observer
32 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å
• Advanced Solar Observer Filter: Standard-
Filter with a clear aperture of 32 mm. Shows
the full sun disc up to effective focal lengths
of approx. 2700 mm
• Different halfbandwidths available depending
on the model
• includes pre-installed adapter set:
• 2x 2" SolarSpectrum Universal Flange
# 2958240
• 1x 2"a to T-2i Reducer # 2958242
• 1x 2"a to T-2a Adapter # 1508035
• 2x T-2 T-2 Dust caps (# 2904000,
# 2904010)
• Power supply: 12V/5A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
• Requires a D-ERF front lter

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 5
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG18
18 mm clear aperture, 0,30Å
• Research Grade Filter RG 18: 18 mm clear
aperture, selected quality with extremely uni-
form H-alpha image over the entire image eld.
Shows the full sun disc up to effective focal
lengths of approx. 1600 mm
• Halfbandwidth 0.30 + 0.10/- 0.05 Angström
• Focal ratio: f/40 +10/-5
• includes pre-installed adapter set:
• 2x 2" SolarSpectrum Universal Flange
# 2958240
• 1x 2"a to T-2i Reducer # 2958242
• 1x 2"a to T-2a Adapter # 1508035
• 2x T-2 T-2 Dust caps (# 2904000,
# 2904010)
• Power supply: 12V/5A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
• Requires a D-ERF front lter
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG32
32 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å
• Research Grade Filter RG 32: 32 mm clear
aperture, selected quality with extremely
uniform H-alpha image over the entire image
eld. Shows the full sun disc up to effective
focal lengths of approx. 2700 mm
• Different halfbandwidths available depending
on the model
• includes pre-installed adapter set:
• 2x 2" SolarSpectrum Universal Flange
# 2958240
• 1x 2"a to T-2i Reducer # 2958242
• 1x 2"a to T-2a Adapter # 1508035
• 2x T-2 T-2 Dust caps (# 2904000,
# 2904010)
• Power supply: 12V/5A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
• Requires a D-ERF front lter

6Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Solar Spectrum Research Grade RG46
46 mm clear aperture, 0,3-0,65Å
• Research Grade Filter RG 46: 46 mm
clear aperture, selected quality with extre-
mely uniform H-alpha image over the
entire image eld. Shows the full sun disc
up to effective focal lengths of approx.
4200 mm
• Different halfbandwidths available depen-
ding on the model
• includes pre-installed adapter set:
• 2x 2" SolarSpectrum Universal Flange
# 2958240
• 1x 2"a to T-2i Reducer # 2958242
• 1x 2"a to T-2a Adapter # 1508035
• 2x T-2 T-2 Dust caps (# 2904000, # 2904010)
• Power supply: 12V/5A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
• Requires a D-ERF front lter
Baader SunDancer II
19 mm clear aperture, 0,6±0,1Å
• Silently heated H-alpha-Filter with integrated 3x telecentric
system with integrated 2 nm blocking lter. Half-width (FWHM)
of 0.6±0.1Å at an effective focal ratio of f/30
• Resistant to ageing: The dielectric coating of the blocking
lter and the airtight storage of the SolarSpectrum Etalon
lter in oil prevent the ageing process
• Shows the full sun disc up to effective focal lengths of
approx. 600 mm
• Shows prominences and solar surface details for visual
observations as well as for photography and bino-viewers
• For telescope with 80 mm aperture or less, no additional
D-ERF (energy rejection lter) is necessary
• Userfriendly electrical temperature control; additional micrometer screw for obser-
viong fast changes in the blue wing of the H-alpha-line
• Steckmaß: 2", 1,25"
• Power supply: 12V/3A, 5,5 mm / 2,1mm plug, tip positive
The SunDancer II by Baader Planetarium uses an Etalon by Solar Spectrum. It is
only available as a complete set with the SunDancer II 3x Telecentric (TZ-3S) and an
integrated blocking lter. It is also compatible with the SunDancer II Telecentric TZ-4S
# 1363080, when the original blocking lter is installed in the TZ-4S. For further infor-
mation, please see the seperate manual of the SunDancer II.

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 7
Scope of delivery
The scope of delivery of the SolarSpectrum lters con-
sists of the actual H-alpha lter, the control unit and the
pre-installed 2" or T-2 (M42x0.75) adapters listed above.
The control boxes are made individually to t the lter
and may vary in appearance.
In addition, the following parts are absolutely necessary:
• A telecentric system to operate the lter at apprimately
f/30 and to achieve a parallel beam of light, which is
necessary for the H-alpha-lter to work properly. For
lters with an FHWM narrower than 0.5Å, an even
slower f/ratio is recommended.
• An energy reecting lter to save the lter system
from the solar heat.
• A power supply
Power Supply
If possible, power is supplied via the separately available Baader OTP 60W: Outdoor
Telescope Power Supply 60W with protective-disconnect ellbowed plug # 2457630. It
supplies 12.8V at 5 A.
If no power outlet is available, the lter can be operated with an optional battery pack
for mobile use. The Celestron Power-Tank LiFePO412V DC/ USB 5V/ 84,4Wh # 821041
works ne. Remember that the cable must be tip positive.
Tipp experienced DIY-constructors: A sufciently strong power supply can power
both mount and lter through a Y-cable, which keeps your cable management clean
and easy.
Please note: Do not reverse the polarity of the power supply. If possible, use the po-
wer supply unit supplied or cables with reverse polarity protection. Damage caused by
reversed polarity is not covered by the warranty.
Baader OTP 60W: Outdoor Telescope Power Supply 60W
with protective disconnect ellbowed plug # 2457630
Celestron PowerTank LiFePO4 12V DC/
USB 5V/ 84,4Wh # 821041

8Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Preparations
Choosing an Energy Rejection Filter
A Dielectric Energy Reection Filter (D-
ERF) protects the H-alpha-lter from the
intense heat of the sun. In principle, it is
a plano-optically polished lter that only
allows red light close to the H-alpha line
to pass and thus ensures that the actual
H-alpha lter does not become too hot. It
does not have to be as narrow-banded as
the actual H-alpha lter; however, the same
demands are made on its surface accuracy
as on the objective. A white-light solar lter
(e.g. made of AstroSolar lm) cannot be
used for this purpose, as it also darkens the
H-alpha line, which is already weaker than
the rest of the solar light.
You can nd a selection of suitable lters on baader-planetarium.com/derf; a mat-
ching lter cell can e.g. be 3D-printed by yourself or several commercial 3D-printers.
These D-ERF lters also serve as IR blocking lters and reect the incoming sun-
light instead of absorbing it. If you want to use a smaller D-ERF lter diameter on an
obstructed telescope to simultaneously stop it down to a more favourable focal ratio,
choose the diameter of the D-ERF so that it sits off-centre next to the secondary mirror
in the optical path. Otherwise you will lose aperture if the secondary mirror sits behind
the D-ERF. Placing several D-ERFs next to each other in order to use more aperture
despite having a secondary mirror also does not give satisfactory results in practice.
Please note that the H-alpha lter must be mounted tilted by about 3° when placed
off-centre.
A suitable lter cell specically for your telescope can only be made by us if you
purchase a complete system consisting of D-ERF and H-alpha lter. However, this is
relatively expensive due to the design and production time. For a quotation we need
the diameter of the mount with an accuracy of 1/10 mm. You can nd instructions on
how to construct your own mount at baader-planetarium.com/derf.
The lter should be placed as close as possible in front of the lens so that no warm
layers of air can accumulate between the lens and the lter and impair the image quali-
ty. Always make sure that the lter is rmly seated!
Tip: Our TriBand telescopes are based on Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes with aper-
tures of 8", 9¼" and 11". These telescopes do not need an additional energy protec-
tion lter, it is already integrated in the coating of the Schmidt plate.
Energy Rejection Filters with up to 180 mm aperture
can be made individually for your telescope and be
combined with a steplessly variable diaphragm or a fixed
aperture diameter

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 9
The Telecentric System and Suitable Telescopes
The SolarSpectrum H-alpha lters require a telecentric system (telecentric for short)
to provide an optimal image. Similar to a barlow lens, a telecentric increases the focal
length and the effective focal ratio of the telescope by the respective factor, but unlike
a barlow, it also ensures a parallel beam of light. For a telescope that would have f/30
by default or would be brought to this focal ratio with a barlow, there is no way that a
parallel beam of light would result without a telecentric! A slightly conical beam of light
with f/30 would deliver a weaker contrast with an etalon with 0.5 Å transmission width
(FWHM) – as if the lter had a FWHM of 0.7 Å or even less. Only a telecentric system
provides this perfectly parallel beam of light, which is essential for the unrestricted
function of an etalon.
The SolarSpectrum lters require an effective focal ratio of at least f/30. For lters
with 0.5-0.7Å, you will achieve the best results with a focal ratio between f/30 and f/35;
for even narrower lters with a half-width below 0.5Å, you should use a focal ratio bet-
ween f/35 and f/45. The focal ratio of your telescope thus determines which telecentric
system you need. With many telescopes, such focal ratios can only be achieved even
with telecentrics if the telescope lens is additionally stopped down.
If you cannot achieve the necessary focal ratio with the available telecentrics, it is
better to stop down the telescope in front of the
objective to f/30 or slower instead of using the lter
with articially enlarged half-width. For this purpo-
se we offer the steplessly variable iris diaphragm
13-113 mm (# 2459300). It has elaborately white-
painted blades so that no unnecessary heat is
generated close to the lens. A xed, white-painted
iris diaphragm can easily be made yourself and
attached with Velcro in front of the D-ERF, for ex-
ample, as in the picture on the right.
Optical systems with a slower focal ratio can also
be used, but due to the longer focal length they
quickly reach minimum magnications that can
rarely be used during the day (due to air turbulence
or exit pupil).
Baader Telezentrische Linsensysteme (TZS) f¸r die
Sonnenbeobachtung mit schmalbandigen H- Filtern
Zur erfolgreichen Sonnenbeobachtung mit schmalbandigen Linienfiltern (Halbwertbreiten unter 1
Angstrˆm) der Marken "Solar Spectrum" und "Day Star" ist ein Teleskop mit einem ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis
von mindestens f/30 die Voraussetzung. Dieses ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis l‰sst sich entweder durch Abblen-
den der Objektivˆffnung ñoder vorzugsweise durch Brennweitenverl‰ngerung mit einem "Telezentri-
schen System" (TZS) ñerzielen. Telezentrische Systeme sind nicht mit Barlowlinsen gleichzu-
setzen (siehe Grafiken)! Nur mit einem TZS entsteht ein paralleles Strahlenb¸ndel, nur damit ist eine
gleichm‰flige Darstellung der chromosph‰rischen Strukturen ¸ber das gesamte Bildfeld des Tele-
skops gew‰hrleistet.
Generell sind nur Refraktoren und katadioptrische Teleskopsysteme mit Hauptspiegelfokussierung
(z.B. Schmidt-Cassegrain Teleskope) zur H-alpha Sonnenbeobachtung geeignet, bei den meisten an-
deren Teleskopsystemen (Newton) steht bauartbedingt der erforderliche Fokussierweg zum Anschluss
des Zubehˆrs zur H- Beobachtung nicht zur Verf¸gung.
Einsatz der Telezentrischen Linsensysteme
Es gibt drei verschiedene Telezentrische Linsensysteme. Je nach gegebenem ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis des
Fernrohrs kann entweder ein 2-faches, 3-faches oder ein 4-faches TZS in Kombination mit Abblen-
dung der Optik eingesetzt werden, um f/30 zu erhalten. Die Beobachtungsmˆglichkeiten und die Fle-
xibilit‰t eines Sonnenteleskops werden jedoch durch den abwechselnden Einsatz der TZS enorm er-
weitert.
Zum Beispiel empfiehlt es sich f¸r Detailbeobachtungen z.B. von Strukturen rund um Sonnenflecken
mit mˆglichst grofler ÷ffnung (= hohe Auflˆsung) zu arbeiten w‰hrend f¸r die Fotografie und Beobach-
tung von Protuberanzen, die durchaus Hˆhen von mehreren 100.000 km erreichen kˆnnen, ein gro-
fles Gesichtsfeld von Vorteil ist.
Das TZ-3 unterscheidet sich von beiden anderen TZ-Systemen dadurch, dass das Linsensystem f¸r
ein H-Etalon mit 46 mm Maximalgrˆfle ausgelegt wurde, um auch die groflen Research-Grade-Filter
von SolarSpectrum vollkommen auszuleuchten. Aus diesem Grund ist das Geh‰use auch beidseitig
mit 2" (50.8 mm) Gewinden ausgestattet, und es sind alle Adapter im Lieferumfang enthalten um das
TZ-3 beidseitig an 2" oder an T-2 (M42x0.75 mm) Gewinden anschlieflen zu kˆnnen. Alle Solar
Spectrum Filter werden ebenfalls beidseitig mit 2" und mit T-2 Gewinden ausgeliefert.
Strahlengang eines 6"/f6 Refraktors der mit einer 5-fach
Barlowlinse auf f/30 verl‰ngert wurde
Strahlengang eines 6"f/30 Refraktors. Diesen Zustand
stellt das Telezentrische System her!
Telezentrische Systeme TZ-2, TZ-3 und TZ-4
Baader Telezentrische Linsensysteme (TZS) f¸r die
Sonnenbeobachtung mit schmalbandigen H- Filtern
Zur erfolgreichen Sonnenbeobachtung mit schmalbandigen Linienfiltern (Halbwertbreiten unter 1
Angstrˆm) der Marken "Solar Spectrum" und "Day Star" ist ein Teleskop mit einem ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis
von mindestens f/30 die Voraussetzung. Dieses ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis l‰sst sich entweder durch Abblen-
den der Objektivˆffnung ñoder vorzugsweise durch Brennweitenverl‰ngerung mit einem "Telezentri-
schen System" (TZS) ñerzielen. Telezentrische Systeme sind nicht mit Barlowlinsen gleichzu-
setzen (siehe Grafiken)! Nur mit einem TZS entsteht ein paralleles Strahlenb¸ndel, nur damit ist eine
gleichm‰flige Darstellung der chromosph‰rischen Strukturen ¸ber das gesamte Bildfeld des Tele-
skops gew‰hrleistet.
Generell sind nur Refraktoren und katadioptrische Teleskopsysteme mit Hauptspiegelfokussierung
(z.B. Schmidt-Cassegrain Teleskope) zur H-alpha Sonnenbeobachtung geeignet, bei den meisten an-
deren Teleskopsystemen (Newton) steht bauartbedingt der erforderliche Fokussierweg zum Anschluss
des Zubehˆrs zur H- Beobachtung nicht zur Verf¸gung.
Einsatz der Telezentrischen Linsensysteme
Es gibt drei verschiedene Telezentrische Linsensysteme. Je nach gegebenem ÷ffnungsverh‰ltnis des
Fernrohrs kann entweder ein 2-faches, 3-faches oder ein 4-faches TZS in Kombination mit Abblen-
dung der Optik eingesetzt werden, um f/30 zu erhalten. Die Beobachtungsmˆglichkeiten und die Fle-
xibilit‰t eines Sonnenteleskops werden jedoch durch den abwechselnden Einsatz der TZS enorm er-
weitert.
Zum Beispiel empfiehlt es sich f¸r Detailbeobachtungen z.B. von Strukturen rund um Sonnenflecken
mit mˆglichst grofler ÷ffnung (= hohe Auflˆsung) zu arbeiten w‰hrend f¸r die Fotografie und Beobach-
tung von Protuberanzen, die durchaus Hˆhen von mehreren 100.000 km erreichen kˆnnen, ein gro-
fles Gesichtsfeld von Vorteil ist.
Das TZ-3 unterscheidet sich von beiden anderen TZ-Systemen dadurch, dass das Linsensystem f¸r
ein H-Etalon mit 46 mm Maximalgrˆfle ausgelegt wurde, um auch die groflen Research-Grade-Filter
von SolarSpectrum vollkommen auszuleuchten. Aus diesem Grund ist das Geh‰use auch beidseitig
mit 2" (50.8 mm) Gewinden ausgestattet, und es sind alle Adapter im Lieferumfang enthalten um das
TZ-3 beidseitig an 2" oder an T-2 (M42x0.75 mm) Gewinden anschlieflen zu kˆnnen. Alle Solar
Spectrum Filter werden ebenfalls beidseitig mit 2" und mit T-2 Gewinden ausgeliefert.
Strahlengang eines 6"/f6 Refraktors der mit einer 5-fach
Barlowlinse auf f/30 verl‰ngert wurde
Strahlengang eines 6"f/30 Refraktors. Diesen Zustand
stellt das Telezentrische System her!
Telezentrische Systeme TZ-2, TZ-3 und TZ-4
Light path of a 6"refracting telescope, which is
expanded to f/30 with a Barlow lens
(light coming from the left).
Light path of a 6"refracting telescope, which is
expanded to f/30 with a telecentric system
(light coming from the left).
A D-ERF can be stopped down with a
simple aperture baffle

10 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
The Telecentric Systems
The clear aperture of the SunDancer TZ-3S # 1363070
(27,5mm, left) and TZ-4S # 1363080 (36 mm, right)
About Magnification and Working Distance
of Telecentric Systems
Unlike a barlow lens, behind which the beam of light widens, a telecentric provides
a parallel beam of light. This is necessary for the proper functioning of an H-alpha
lter (which requires at least f/30 and a parallel beam of light). The second advan-
tage of this design is that the distance between camera/eyepiece and telecentric
can also be signicantly changed without noticeably affecting
the image.
In practice, you don't have to match this distance perfectly.
The 2" Research Grade TZ-3 # 2459257 is
calculated for a working distance of 250
mm ±10 mm, so that it also works perfectly
with a bino-viewer. A greater distance is no
problem.
Please note: In principle, you can also use
an eyepiece very close behind the telecen-
tric or the H-alpha lter mounted behind
it. Then, however, you will not only see the
image of the sun, but also the sealent and
other structures within the naturally grown
etalon lter, which have no inuence on the
nal image at the correct working distance,
but can be visible as streaks if the distance
is too short.
Unlike a barlow lens, you cannot change
the image scale by changing the working distance. For a higher magnication (as
far as it ts the pixel size of the camera), we recommend the Telecentric System
TZ-4 # 2459256 (230 mm working distance) or the SunDancer TZ-4S # 1363080 (120
mm working distance) instead of an additional barlow lens. Unlike standard Barlow
lenses, these telecentrics are also optimised for H-alpha observation.
Please note that the 2" Research
Grade TZ-3 # 2459257 and the tele-
centric systems TZ-4 # 2459256 and
TZ-2 # 2459255 (discontinued) are not
barlow lenses and are optimised for
a Strehl of 99% at the H-alpha line
of 656.3 nm, but not for other wave-
lengths.
The SunDancer telecentrics TZ-3S
# 1363070 and TZ-4S # 1363080 are
achromatic systems that can also be
used as barlow lenses.
SunDancer TZ-4S # 1363080 (left)
and TZ-4 # 2459256 (right)

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 11
2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System
# 2459257
• Research Grade Telecentric Unit, featuring an oversized
pick up expanding lens set and 2" (50.8mm) threads on
both sides
• T-2 Adapter and 2" m/f inverter ring are both included as
standard accessories
• 46 mm clear aperture at the H-alpha-lter entrance side
– suitable for research grade SolarSpectrum H-alpha lters
• Large working distance of 250 mm for optimized focal length reduction with a tele-
compressor and suitable room for adapting a binocular viewer
• Aplanatic, with 3x focal length extension to achieve a parallel f/30 beam in conjunc-
tion with ~f/10 optics systems – free of eld curvtare
• The original focus point of the telescope is ~86 mm behind the end of the telecen-
tric system
• Primarily calculated and produced for H-alpha at 656,3 nm, delivering 99% Strehl
(denition brightness) depending on the used telescope system
• Diffraction limited design with about 80% Strehl also at 396 nm (CaK)
Telecentric System TZ-4
# 2459256
• Telecentric with 2" outer diameter and T-2 threads on both
sides
• Aplanatic, with 4x focal length extension to achieve a parallel
f/30 beam in conjunction with ~f/7,5 optics systems – free of
eld curvature
• Primarily calculated and produced for H-alpha at 656,3 nm,
delivering maximum Strehl (denition brightness)
• Working distance to camera sensor: 230 mm
• The original focus point of the telescope is ~93 mm behind
the end of the telecentric system

12 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
A
A
5,591
36,92 42,511
2,831
94,1
2,831
A-A
CONFIDENTIAL
31,75
50,8
24,5
21
M42x0,75
5
3
97
Reference
Plane
original focal
plane of the optic
Focal plain
of your eyepiece
or camera
Filter Side
Telescope Side
A
A
5,591
36,92 42,511
2,831
94,1
2,831
A-A
CONFIDENTIAL
31,75
50,8
24,5
21
M42x0,75
5
3
97
Reference
Plane
original focal
plane of the optic
Focal plain
of your eyepiece
or camera
Filter Side
Telescope Side
A A
5,591
36,92 42,511
2,831
94,1
2,831
A-A
CONFIDENTIAL
31,75
50,8
24,5
21
M42x0,75
5
3
97
Reference
Plane
original focal
plane of the optic
Focal plain
of your eyepiece
or camera
Filter Side
Telescope Side
SunDancer II Telecentric System TZ-3S
# 1363070
• Achromatic 3x telecentric system with yellow sleeve, also
suitable for white light and planetary photogrphy
• Four-lens optical design, BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reection)
coating – gives you f/30 at telescopes with f/10
• Anti-reective thread and blackened lens edges
• Clear aperture: 27,5mm on the camera side
• Image circle 27,5 mm in a distance of
96mm from the base of the T-2 thread
• 1¼" and 2" nose piece with 1¼" lter
thread, T-2 thread on the camera side
• Worling distance: 96 mm from the base
of the T-2-thread without an additional
H-alpha-lter (65 mm from the base of the
T-2-thread of the SunDancer II H-alpha-
lter due to the glass path of the H-alpha-lter)
Please note: The TZ3-S is also part of the Baader SunDancer II H-alpha lter. There, it
also contains a additional blocking lter with 19 mm diameter, so that this H-alpha-l-
ter can be used at telescopes up to an aperture of 80 mm without an additional D-ERF,
and has got a red sleeve for better distinction.
SunDancer II Telecentric System TZ-4S
# 1363080
• Short achromatic 4x telecentric system with violet sleeve, also
suitable for white light and planetary photogrphy
• four lens optical design, BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reection) coa-
ting – gives you f/30 at telescopes with f/7,5
• Anti-reective thread and blackened lens edges
• Clear aperture: 36mm on the camera side
• Image circle 36 mm in a distance of 97mm from the base of the T-2 thread
• 1¼" and 2" nose piece with 1¼" lter thread, T-2 thread on
the camera side, lter cell for the 19 mm blocking lter of the SunDancer II
• Worling distance: 97 mm
from the base of the T-2-
thread without an additio-
nal H-alpha-lter (70 mm
from the base of the T-2-
thread of the SunDancer II
H-alpha-lter)
The TZ4-S is compatible with the
blocking lter of the SunDancer II H-alpha lter. The 37 mm aperture also
allows use with larger H-alpha lters with additional blocking/energy rejecting lter.

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 13
Additional Optical Accessories
Eyepieces
In principle, you can use any eyepiece that provides a sharp, high-contrast image.
Special H-alpha eyepieces are mainly corrected for the red part of the spectrum and
may not provide a similarly sharp image as in H-alpha when observing white light.
Long focal length eyepieces still provide a bright image even at the ideal focal ratio of
f/30 for an H-alpha lter and avoid over-magnication. Due to the telecentric system,
you reach high magnications very quickly and end up in over-magnication very
soon with common eyepieces. The over-magnication would cause a sensitive loss of
sharpness.
Please note: Although the telecentrics have an ideal working distance, the systems
are very good-natured due to the parallel beam path, and you usually do not need an
additional extension tube in front of the eyepiece clamp for visual use – star diagonal
and H-alpha lter usually already provide sufcient distance. Even a bino-viewer can be
used without an additional glass path corrector.
We recommend eyecups with a foldable stray light shade, as they are also included in
the scope of delivery of our Hyperion and Morpheus eyepieces. An observation cloth
that is white on the outside and black on the inside or a sun shield (for T-2: # 2959279,
for 2": # 2959280, for M68: # 2959281, see application picture on page 3) also helps to
suppress stray light and increase contrast.
Maximizing the Field of View
The maximum sizie of the eld of view is determined by the clear apertures of both H-
alpha-lter and telecentric system. Especially at the smaller H-alpha lters, the entire
sun is therefore only visible to telescopes with a short focal length. Do not forget that
the focal length is increased by the respective factor due to the telecentrics. Per metre
of focal length, the Sun has a diameter of about one centimetre.
2" eyepieces allow lower magnications and thus a brighter image, plus often a more
comfortable viewing behaviour and an even slightly larger eld of view than 1¼" eye-
pieces can offer. The eld stop diameter of 2" eyepieces is up to 47 mm, compared to
about 28 mm for 1¼" eyepieces.
Typical long focal length eyepieces provide the following exit pupils (EP) at f/30:
Classic Ortho 32mm
1¼" – #2954132
Hyperion 36mm
2" – #2454636
Celestron Omni 40mm
1¼" – #810246
Celestron Omni 56mm
2"– #810248
EP at f/30 1 mm 1,2 mm 1,3 mm 1,9 mm
The Highest Magnification
The rule of thumb that the maximum magnication corresponds to twice the aperture
diameter in millimetres does not apply for H-alpha observations. At magnications
beyond an exit pupil of 0.7-0.8 mm, the image quality suffers, which is due to both the
deep red wavelength used and the optimisation of most optics to the green wave-
length range in the middle of the spectrum.

14 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Reducer
The telecentric system gives you a slow focal ratio of about f/30, so that quite high
magnications and exit pupils of 1-2 mm are already achieved with common long focal
length eyepieces.
In principle, smaller magnications (but not a larger eld of view – this is determined
by the clear aperture of the H-alpha lter and the telecentric system!) are possible
through a reducer, in order to use the telescope even with strongly visible air tur-
bulence. However, the distance to the reducer must be maintained for it to work as
expected. For visual use, a long focal length eyepiece is therefore easier to handle
than a reducer.
The use of a telecompressor is much more interesting when using modern CMOS
cameras, whose small pixels harmonise better with faster focal ratios or shorter focal
lengths, and which show a larger eld on the given sensor size when used with a tele-
compressor. The following telecompressors are available for photography:
• Research Grade H-alpha 0.4x Telecompressor 2" for Solar Spectrum # 2459260
• H-alpha 0.7x Telecompressor 2" for Solar Spectrum # 2459259
Please note that the eld of view is limited by the diameter of the H-alpha lter in
front of the reducer. A reducer compresses the entire image so that vignetting can
occur on larger sensors – the 0.4x telecompressor in particular reduces the image so
much that only a eld of view up to 16 mm diagonal is in focus. For connection see
page 21.
Star Diagonals
On most telescopes, a star diagonal is necessary for comfortable viewing. For best
quality, we recommend Baader BBHS®zenith prisms or BBHS®zenith mirrors with
astro-sitall mirror material (glass ceramic with zero expansion coefcient) and 1/10 l
surface quality. Avoid dielectric mirrors, as the numerous layers can lead to undesi-
rable effects such as loss of contrast. Therefore, only use mirrors that use silver or
aluminium as the mirror material.
You can use both 1¼" and 2" star diagonals. The installation is always done behind
the SolarSpectrum H-alpha lter.

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 15
Getting started
Always install the D-ERF in front of the telescope
before you install the H-alpha-filter and point the telescope at the sun.
The SolarSpectrum lters can be screwed directly to the respective telecentric system
via the T-2 thread. Optionally, a Baader TQC/TCR Heavy duty T-2 Quick Changing
System # 2456322 can also be used to make it easier to attach and align the lter,
especially when the telecentric is screwed to the telescope. If the telecentric (especially
the Research Grade TZ-3) has an SC thread, you can also unscrew the T-2-adapter on
the telescope-side of the SolarSpectrum H-alpha lter. This is recommended especially
for SolarSpectrum lters with more than 42 mm aperture to avoid vignetting by the T-2
system.
Depending on the model, there are several ways to install the telecentric system:
• Using a 2" eyepiece clamp: TZ-2, TZ-3 and TZ-4 can be used at 2" eyepiece
clamps via the T-2-thread with the 2" / T-2 (M48) nosepiece with Safety Kerfs
# 2458130. With the SC-thread of the TZ-3, you can also use the 2" Safety Kerf
nosepiece with 2" lter thread # 2408156. TZ3-S and TZ4-S already provide a stan-
dard 2" nose piece integrated in their housing. For a better grip, we recommend
clamps with a clamping ring like our ClickLock®eyepiece clamps.
• Using a screw connecion at the telescope: This is recommended for the longer
telecentric systems TZ-2, TZ-3 and TZ-4. You can use the T-2-thread, in the case of
the TZ-3, there is also an SC-thread available. If you are using a Baader Diamond
SteelTrack®focuser, you can replace its eyepiece clamp with one of the following
threaded adapters:
• Diamond Steeltrack®S58 to T-2 BDS-Adapter # 2957202
• Diamond Steeltrack®S58 to M48 BDS-Adapter # 2957204
• Diamond Steeltrack®S58 to M68a BDS-Adapter # 2957206
• Using the Tele-Kompendium: At telescopes with M68-thread, you can insert
the telecentric systems TZ-2, TZ-3 and TZ-4 also in the M68 Tele-Kompendium
# 2459258. The telecentric sysem is screwed into the telescope-side of the Tele-
Kompendium, the H-alpha-lter can be attached with an included 2"/T-2-nosepiece
at the end of the Tele-Kompendium. The large diameter of the M68-system carries
even heavy loads without twisting.
Especially for the longer telecentric systems, we recommend a screw connection to
the telescope to avoid tilting.
M68 Tele-Kompendium # 2459258 with telezentric system TZ-4 # 2459258

16 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Example Adaptations
On the following pages we will show you some conguration examples, below a
complete setup using a refractor as an example, the other detailed examples using a
TriBand Schmidt Cassegrain (f/10) with integrated energy protection lter, to which the
telecentric is screwed via the SC thread. The examples refer to the Research Grade
TZ3 with 250 mm working distance and may have to be adapted to the working dis-
tance of your telecentric.
The examples are guiding values that work because of the parallel beam path of the
telecentrics – in practice it is not necessary to keep the calculated distances exactly to
the millimetre to get good results. Since the examples do not take into account the dif-
ferent optical lengths of the various H-alpha lters, you can determine exact distances
using the method described on page 28.
For SolarSpectrum lters, the red side always faces towards the observer, while the
silver side faces towards the telescope.
SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter example setup – complete system
The following image shows a fully equipped refractor telescope. The Dielectric Energy
Rejection Filter is instaled together with the variable diaphragm in front of the lens, the
telecentric system is inside of the M68 tele-Compendium.
The solar shade places the eyepiece into the shadow, which makes a better cont-
rast possible when looking in the eyepiece. The VarioFinder can be equipped with the
65mm AstroSolar Spotting Scope Filter (ASSF) # 2459336 as conveniant solar nder.

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 17
1 2 10
11
5
7
6
8
9
43
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – visual use, M48-System
For very large H-alpha lters, it is worth using the M48 system and 2" eyepieces to
make use of the entire eld of view without vignetting caused by 1¼" eyepieces or T-2
adapters. Smaller H-alpha lters can also be used with 2" accessories, but here the
lter diameter limits the visible eld of view.
The 2" Research Grade TZ-3 # 2459257 has a back focus of 250 mm, although there
is some exibility due to the parallel beam of light. We recommend the following setup
for 2" eyepieces:
1E.g. TriBand Schmidt-Cassegrain with SC-thread
2# 2958243 Baader Ultrashort 2"/ 2" Thread-Inverter-Ring, included with the TZ-3
3# 2459257 2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System (3-times extension of the
focal length),
4# 2958244 Baader Reducing-Ring 2"i / T-2a, with 1.5 mm optical length, included
with the TZ-3 – to attach SolarSpectrum-Filters with T-2-thread. Not needed for
SolarSpectrum-lters with female SC-thread.
5
SolarSpectrum-Filter with female SC-thread on both sides. Filters which only have
T-threads on the eyepiece side need in addition the reducing piece M48a / T-2i
# 2958553, cf. 6
6# 2454834 2"a / M48i Zero-length reducing piece (zero optical length) and
# 2958555 Conversion Ring M48a/M48a. If your lter has got a xed male T-2-th-
read, you need Reducing piece M48a / T-2i # 2958553 instead.
7# 2958593 Baader Heavy Duty M48 Quick Changing System, length 15 mm *
82 pieces # 2958610 Baader M48 extension tube 10 mm
9# 2956248 Baader 2" ClickLock M48i Eyepiece Clamp, length 36,5 mm *
10 Prism diagonal, e.g. # 2456117 Baader 2" BBHS®Prism Star Diagonal
11 Eyepiece, z.B. # 2454636 36 mm Hyperion Aspheric 2" Eyepiece
*) When using the eyepiece clamp 9, the quick changer 7can be replaced with M48
extensions, or vice versa. Instead of using 9, the nosepieces of our 2" star diagonals
can also be screwed directly onto a M48 extension tube.

18 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – visual use, T-2-System
For smaller H-alpha-lters with a diameter of 38 mm or less, an adaptation with the
T-2-System and a 1¼" or 2" eyepiece clamp can be used.
1E.g. TriBand Schmidt-Cassegrain with SC-thread
2# 2958243 Baader Ultrashort 2"/ 2" Thread-Inverter-Ring, included with the TZ-3
3# 2459257 2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System (3-times extension of the
focal length),
4# 2958244 Baader Reducing-Ring 2"i / T-2a, with 1.5 mm optical length, included
with the TZ-3 – to attach SolarSpectrum-Filters with T-2-thread. Not needed for
SolarSpectrum-lters with female SC-thread.
5
SolarSpectrum-Filter with female SC-thread on both sides.
5SolarSpectrum-Filter with T-2-threads. Filter with SC-thread can be attached
directly to the telecentric system, without 4
6# 1508035 Baader Adapter 2" (male) / T-2 (male) – only for SolarSpectrum-lters
with female SC-thread, included with the SolarSpectrum-lters
7Recommended: 3x # 1508153 Baader T-2 / 40 mm Extension Tube
8# 2456322 Baader TQC/TCR Heavy duty T-2 Quick Changing System
9T-2 prism diagonal, e.g. # 2456095 Baader T-2 Star Diagonal (Zeiss) Prism with
BBHS®coating
10 T-2 eyepiece clamp, e.g. Baader Focusing Eyepiece Holder 1¼" / T-2 # 2458125,
Baader 2" to 1¼" ClickLock Reducer (T-2 part #15B) # 2956214
or Baader 2" ClickLock T-2 (M42i x 0.75) clamp # 2956242
11 Eyepiece, e.g. # 2454636 36 mm Hyperion Aspheric 2" eyepiece – can be used as
2"-eyepiece as well as 1¼"-eyepiece
Please note: The perfect working distance of the TZ-3 is 250±10 mm, but in practice
the system is very good-natured.
1 2
10
11
5
7
68
9
4
3

© 2023 Baader Planetarium GmbH 19
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – Bino-Viewer
1E.g. TriBand Schmidt-Cassegrain with SC-thread
2# 2958243 Baader Ultrashort 2"/ 2" Thread-Inverter-Ring, included with the TZ-3
3# 2459257 2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System (3-times extension of the
focal length),
4# 2958244 Baader Reducing-Ring 2"i / T-2a, with 1.5 mm optical length, included
with the TZ-3 – to attach SolarSpectrum-Filters with T-2-thread. Not needed for
SolarSpectrum-lters with female SC-thread.
5SolarSpectrum-Filter with T-2-threads. Filter with SC-thread can be attached di-
rectly to the telecentric system, without 4
6# 1508035 Baader Adapter 2" (male) / T-2 (male) – only for SolarSpectrum-lters
with female SC-thread, included with the SolarSpectrum-lters
7#2456322 Baader TQC/TCR Heavy duty T-2 Quick Changing System
8T-2 prism diagonal, e.g. # 2456095 Baader T-2 Star Diagonal (Zeiss) Prism with
BBHS®coating
9# 2456313A Baader Heavy Duty T-2 QuickChanger (T-2 part #06A) for bino-viewers
with Zeiss dovetail. Not necessary for binoviewers with T-2 knurled slip ring
10 Bino-viewer, e.g. # 2454636 MaxBright II or # 2456410 Mark V Großfeld (Giant)-
Binocular, to be used without glasspath corrector
In this conguration, the generous working distance of the TZ-3 shines, and you can
observe the sun with both eyes.
12
10
5
7
6
8
9
4
3

20 Manual: SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter and Baader Planetarium Telecentric Systems
Example Configuration for SolarSpectrum H-alpha-Filter – for Photography without
Reducer
1TriBand Schmidt-Cassegrain with SC-thread
2# 2958243 Baader Ultrashort 2"/ 2" Thread-Inverter-Ring, included with the TZ-3
3# 2459257 2" Research Grade TZ-3 Telecentric System (3-times extension of the
focal length),
4# 2958244 Baader Reducing-Ring 2"i / T-2a, with 1.5mm optical length, included
with the TZ-3 – to attach SolarSpectrum-Filters with T-2-thread. Not needed for
SolarSpectrum-lters with female SC-thread.
5SolarSpectrum-Filter with T-2-threads. Filter with SC-thread can be attached di-
rectly to the telecentric system, without 4
6# 1508035 Baader Adapter 2" (male) / T-2 (male) – only for SolarSpectrum-lters
with female SC-thread, included with the SolarSpectrum-lters
7T-2-extensions to set up the camera's working distance. The back focus of the
TZ-3 is 250 mm ±10mm. E.g. for a camera with 17 mm back focus and a circa 60
mm long H-alpha-Filter as shown above, you can use 4x # 1508153 Baader T-2 /
40 mm Extension Tube.
8Monochrome Camera
Please note: You can also integrate a camera tilter or an ADC into the stack of
T-2-extensions 7to avoid Newtonian rings in your images. Cameras with M48-thread
can be adapted with a T-2-adapter or using the M48-system as described on page 17.
1 2
5
6
7 8
4
3