More products from the brand :DayStar

DayStar Quark – Chromosphere ou Prominence (à préciser lors de la commande)

CHF 1'299

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Daystar QUARK, the H-alpha filter that turns your telescope into a solar telescope

Le Daystar QUARK est un véritable filtre ha qui tient dans la main et se glisse dans un renvoi coudé comme un simple oculaire. Pourtant, il embarque tout ce qu’il faut pour observer le Soleil en H-alpha (656 nm) : un Barlow télécentrique 4.2× optimisé pour cette longueur d’onde, un étalon Fabry-Pérot, un blocage intégré et les adaptateurs 1,25″ et 2″ pour s’intégrer à votre matériel existant.Concrètement, vous ne touchez pas à votre lunette. Vous retirez votre oculaire, vous insérez le QUARK, vous remettez l’oculaire derrière, et vous observez. C’est aussi simple que ça.

QUARK performs at its best on refractors between f/4 and f/8. It works outside this range, but with some compromises on brightness or bandwidth finesse (details below).

Veuillez préciser la version lors de la commande ou me contacter 🙂 

Technical specifications

Summary table
Type H-alpha all-in-one eyepiece format filter
Available versions Prominence (wider band, brighter image) or Chromosphere (narrower band, better surface contrast)
Integrated optics 4.2× telecentric barlow, 2 elements, optimized for 656 nm
Free opening 21 mm
Interface 1.25″ eyepiece output, 1.25″ and 2″ adapters supplied
Power supply USB 5 V (1.5 A recommended), 90-240 VAC power adapter and international plugs supplied
Setting Tuning wheel ±0.5 Å with 0.1 Å steps, status LED
Accessories included Brass clamping ring, Twist-Case, adapters
Warranty 5 years
Autonomy Low power consumption, compatible with optional battery pack (up to 8h)
The ideal beach f/4 to f/8 refractors, full-disc up to approx. 450 mm focal length

Chromosphere or Prominence, how to choose?

This is the question I'm asked most often. The answer can be summed up in one sentence: both show the surface and the protuberances, but with a different bandwidth, and therefore a different compromise between brightness and contrast.

Criteria Chromosphere Prominence
Bandwidth (FWHM) Narrower, higher spectral selectivity Wider, more light
Filaments and surface details Clearly visible, that's its strong point Less pronounced, sometimes invisible depending on conditions
Limb protuberances Visible, sometimes with less contrast than in Prominence Very bright and spectacular
Chromospheric contrast (patches, spots, granulation) Excellent, ideal for detailing Weaker, the emphasis is on brightness
Public type Versatile observers, astrophotographers of the solar disk Observers who mainly want spectacular protuberances
Visual sensation Slightly darker image, rich in fine detail Brighter image, eye-catching protuberances
In plain English: take the Chromosphere if you want to see the filaments and surface detail. Take the Prominence if you want shiny protuberances on the limb.

In the field

  • On a scope between f/4 and f/8, this is the ideal configuration. You insert the QUARK, add a 1.25″ eyepiece behind it, wait a few minutes for the standard to warm up, and observe.
  • At f/4, the image is brighter but the effective bandwidth widens, so you lose a little selectivity.
  • Above f/9, the image becomes visually darker. This is often a good choice for long exposure photography, less so for direct observation.
  • The tuning wheel allows the standard to be precisely centered on the H-alpha line. Notches of 0.1 Å make the adjustment repeatable from one session to the next.
  • The optional battery pack is a real plus for field trips far from a mains socket.

Compatibility with your instrument

Telescope type What it looks like
Refractors f/4 to f/8 Recommended configuration for optimum performance
Refractors beyond f/9 Works, but darker visual image. More photo-oriented.
Refractors below f/4 Works, brighter image but wider bandwidth
Large diameters No aperture limit, QUARK accepts large instruments to increase magnification
Off-axis configurations The QUARK is not designed for this purpose.

What you get

  • QUARK (Prominence or Chromosphere version, depending on your choice)
  • 1.25″ and 2″ snouts with safety catches
  • Brass clamping ring to protect your lens
  • 90-240 VAC power adapter with international plugs
  • Twist-Case carrying case
  • Documentation and 5-year warranty
  • Optional: 8-hour battery pack

Frequently asked questions

Do both versions show the protuberances?

Yes, without exception. The difference is that Prominence makes them brighter and more spectacular, while Chromosphere reveals the filaments and fine texture of the surface.

Can I use QUARK on a frame already fitted with a front filter?

No. The QUARK is a stand-alone H-alpha unit, designed to stand alone in the optical chain. Stacking unsuitable front-end filters is at best inefficient, at worst dangerous. The only exception is ERFs (Energy Rejection Filters), which are designed to operate upstream.

Is it safe to observe the Sun directly?

Yes, as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never point the Sun without equipment specifically designed and certified for this purpose.

Our recommendation

Take the Chromosphere if :

  • You want a versatile instrument that shows filaments, patches and chromospheric details.
  • You're doing or want to do solar astrophotography and are looking for contrast

Take the Prominence if :

  • Your priority is the luminous protuberances on the limb
  • You want a brighter, more immediate image for fast visual sessions

In practice, the majority of our customers choose the Chromosphere for its versatility. But if you already know that what makes you tick is the protuberances, the Prominence will not disappoint.

© Daystar Instruments. Exact specifications and final bandwidth may vary according to your telescope configuration and observing conditions. If in doubt about compatibility with your instrument, please contact us before purchasing.

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