{"id":10108,"date":"2025-08-27T17:54:13","date_gmt":"2025-08-27T15:54:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/deep-space-astronomy.ch\/?post_type=product&p=10108"},"modified":"2025-08-27T17:57:48","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T15:57:48","slug":"daystar-quark-chromosphere","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/deep-space-astronomy.ch\/en\/product\/daystar-quark-chromosphere\/","title":{"rendered":"DayStar Quark - Chromosphere or Prominence"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Daystar QUARK - Hydrogen-Alpha eye filter<\/h1>\n

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Easily transform your refractor into a safe, high-performance solar telescope. Choose version Prominence<\/strong> or Chromosphere<\/strong> - same price.<\/p>\n<\/header>\n

Visit QUARK<\/strong> from Daystar is an all-in-one, eyepiece-sized accessory combining a 4.2\u00d7 telecentric barlow optimized for the H-alpha wavelength (656 nm), an H-alpha filter unit based on Fabry-Perot technology, 1.25\u2033\/2\u2033 adapter tips and an integrated blocker.
\nIt is designed to be inserted directly into a bend-connector, enabling a visual or photographic solar observation experience on refractors that is quick to set up.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n

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Main technical data<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Summary table of specifications<\/caption>\n
Type<\/th>\nPortable all-in-one H-alpha \"Eyepiece\" filter (QUARK)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Available models<\/th>\nProminence (wider bandwidth, brighter image) \/ Chromosphere (narrower bandwidth, better surface contrast)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Price<\/th>\n1215 CHF<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Integrated optics<\/th>\n4.2\u00d7 telecentric barlow, 2 elements, optimized for 656 nm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Clear aperture<\/th>\n21 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Interface<\/th>\n1.25\u2033 standard eyepiece outlet, 1.25\u2033 & 2.0\u2033 snouts included (safety)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Power supply<\/th>\nUSB 5 V (1.5 A recommended). Supplied with 90-240 VAC adapter and international plugs.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Control<\/th>\nTuning wheel \u00b10.5 \u00c5 with notches every 0.1 \u00c5, status LED<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Accessories<\/th>\nBrass clamping ring, Twist-Case, SCT adapters\/2\u2033 options<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warranty<\/th>\n5 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Power consumption\/battery<\/th>\nLow power consumption, compatible with optional 8h battery pack<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Recommended use<\/th>\nf\/4-f\/8 refractors; full disc possible up to ~450 mm focal length<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/section>\n
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Chromosphere vs Prominence - What's the difference?<\/h2>\n

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The choice between Chromosphere<\/strong> and Prominence<\/strong> depends on the observation objective:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Features<\/th>\nChromosphere<\/th>\nProminence<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Effective bandwidth (FWHM)<\/td>\nNarrower \u2192 better spectral selectivity (better surface contrast).<\/td>\nWider \u2192 lets slightly more light through (brighter image).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Visibility of filaments<\/td>\nYes - filaments and fine surface details become visible.<\/td>\nLess pronounced - filaments may be very weak or invisible, depending on conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Prominences (disc edges)<\/td>\nVisible - the chromosphere version also shows the protuberances, but sometimes with less contrast than in Prominence.<\/td>\nVery conspicuous - often the preferred version if the main interest is the observation of shiny protuberances on the leaf blade.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Surface contrast (patches, spots, chromospheric details)<\/td>\nHigher - ideal for observing surface detail and chromospheric texture.<\/td>\nLower - priority given to the brightness of the protuberances.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Recommended use<\/td>\nVersatile observers, astrophotographers looking for surface detail, people wishing to see filaments and beaches.<\/td>\nObservers focused on protuberances and luminous scenes at the limb, or visual use in lower-contrast sky conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Exposure \/ Visual sensation<\/td>\nSlightly darker image, but rich in fine contrast.<\/td>\nBrighter image, facilitates detection of large protuberances.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
In a nutshell:<\/strong> both models show protuberances. Choose Chromosphere<\/em> if you want the best ability to see filaments and surface detail; choose Prominence<\/em> if you want a brighter image and to emphasize the limb protuberances.<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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Advice on use and compatibility<\/h2>\n
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  • Insert the QUARK , add a 1.25\u2033 eyepiece and observe - ultra-simple configuration for f\/4 to f\/8 refractors.<\/li>\n
  • F-ratios below f\/4: brighter, but effective bandwidth may widen (less selectivity).<\/li>\n
  • F-ratios greater than f\/9: weaker visual image (often better for long exposure photography than for visual observation).<\/li>\n
  • Use the tuning wheel to center the \u00e9ta-lon on the H-alpha line; the 0.1 \u00c5 notches facilitate spectral focusing.<\/li>\n
  • The optional battery pack provides extended autonomy for unplugged field sessions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Practical compatibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Telescope type<\/th>\nRemarks<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    f\/4 - f\/8 refractors<\/td>\nRecommended configuration - optimum performance.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Refractors > f\/9<\/td>\nWorks, but darker image; recommended for photography.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Refractors < f\/4<\/td>\nWorks, brighter but bandwidth may be increased.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Frames & large diameters<\/td>\nNo aperture limitation - can be used to increase magnification on large instruments.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Off-axis applications<\/td>\nNot recommended; QUARK is not designed for off-axis use.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/section>\n
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    Contents and accessories<\/h2>\n
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    • QUARK (Prominence or Chromosphere version)<\/li>\n
    • 1.25\u2033 and 2\u2033 snouts with safety catches<\/li>\n
    • Brass clamping ring to protect eyepiece<\/li>\n
    • 90-240VAC power adapter + international cables<\/li>\n
    • Twist-Case carrying case<\/li>\n
    • Documentation & 5-year warranty<\/li>\n
    • Optional: 8-hour battery pack (extra)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/section>\n
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      FAQ - Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n

      Do both versions feature protuberances?<\/h3>\n

      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.<\/p>\n

      Can I use QUARK on sunglasses already fitted with a front filter?<\/h3>\n

      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.<\/p>\n

      Is it safe for direct observation of the Sun?<\/h3>\n

      Yes, if used correctly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Never look at the sun without the proper equipment.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n

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      Purchase recommendation<\/h2>\n
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      Choose Chromosphere<\/em><\/strong> if :<\/p>\n

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      • You want a versatile instrument capable of displaying filaments, patches and chromospheric details.<\/li>\n
      • You're an astrophotographer looking for surface contrast.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Choose Prominence<\/em><\/strong> if :<\/p>\n

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        • Your main interest is the visual observation of luminous protuberances on the limb.<\/li>\n
        • You prefer a brighter image (e.g. fast sessions, reduced light conditions).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Most users choose the Chromosphere<\/em> for its versatility, but if you're sure you only want spectacular views of the protuberances, the Prominence<\/em> is a perfect fit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n