CHF 1'215
Disponible en stock chez le fournisseur
Easily transform your refractor into a safe, high-performance solar telescope. Choose version Prominence or Chromosphere - same price.
Note: QUARK is qualified for optimal use on refractors between f/4 and f/8; it will operate outside these ranges with compromises in brightness or bandwidth.
| Type | Portable all-in-one H-alpha "Eyepiece" filter (QUARK) |
|---|---|
| Available models | Prominence (wider bandwidth, brighter image) / Chromosphere (narrower bandwidth, better surface contrast) |
| Price | 1215 CHF |
| Integrated optics | 4.2× telecentric barlow, 2 elements, optimized for 656 nm |
| Clear aperture | 21 mm |
| Interface | 1.25″ standard eyepiece outlet, 1.25″ & 2.0″ snouts included (safety) |
| Power supply | USB 5 V (1.5 A recommended). Supplied with 90-240 VAC adapter and international plugs. |
| Control | Tuning wheel ±0.5 Å with notches every 0.1 Å, status LED |
| Accessories | Brass clamping ring, Twist-Case, SCT adapters/2″ options |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Power consumption/battery | Low power consumption, compatible with optional 8h battery pack |
| Recommended use | f/4-f/8 refractors; full disc possible up to ~450 mm focal length |
The choice between Chromosphere and Prominence depends on the observation objective:
| Features | Chromosphere | Prominence |
|---|---|---|
| Effective bandwidth (FWHM) | Narrower → better spectral selectivity (better surface contrast). | Wider → lets slightly more light through (brighter image). |
| Visibility of filaments | Yes - filaments and fine surface details become visible. | Less pronounced - filaments may be very weak or invisible, depending on conditions. |
| Prominences (disc edges) | Visible - the chromosphere version also shows the protuberances, but sometimes with less contrast than in Prominence. | Very conspicuous - often the preferred version if the main interest is the observation of shiny protuberances on the leaf blade. |
| Surface contrast (patches, spots, chromospheric details) | Higher - ideal for observing surface detail and chromospheric texture. | Lower - priority given to the brightness of the protuberances. |
| Recommended use | Versatile observers, astrophotographers looking for surface detail, people wishing to see filaments and beaches. | Observers focused on protuberances and luminous scenes at the limb, or visual use in lower-contrast sky conditions. |
| Exposure / Visual sensation | Slightly darker image, but rich in fine contrast. | Brighter image, facilitates detection of large protuberances. |
| Telescope type | Remarks |
|---|---|
| f/4 - f/8 refractors | Recommended configuration - optimum performance. |
| Refractors > f/9 | Works, but darker image; recommended for photography. |
| Refractors < f/4 | Works, brighter but bandwidth may be increased. |
| Frames & large diameters | No aperture limitation - can be used to increase magnification on large instruments. |
| Off-axis applications | Not recommended; QUARK is not designed for off-axis use. |
Yes, both models display protuberances at the limbus. The Prominence version gives a brighter image of protuberances, while the Chromosphere offers superior contrast for fine surface structures and filaments.
No - QUARK is designed as a stand-alone H-alpha unit to be inserted in the optical chain. Simultaneous use of other front filters without a specific procedure can be dangerous or degrade the image. With the exception of ERFs, of course.
Yes, if used correctly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Never look at the sun without the proper equipment.
Choose Chromosphere if :
Choose Prominence if :
Most users choose the Chromosphere for its versatility, but if you're sure you only want spectacular views of the protuberances, the Prominence is a perfect fit.
