What makes the Baader Hyperion 68° set a modular "system"?
The Hyperion set is a system because its components are designed to be reconfigured. Each eyepiece (except the 24mm) can have its focal length altered using optional Fine Tuning Rings. Additionally, integrated M43 and SP54 threads allow for the direct attachment of cameras for eyepiece projection, and the dual 1.25"/2" barrel design takes 1.25" filters and, at the M48 thread, a 2" filter.
How do the Phantom Group coatings on the Hyperion eyepieces improve the view?
Baader's Phantom Group Coatings are 7-layer anti-reflection coatings specifically designed for visual astronomy. They are optimized for maximum light transmission around 520nm, the peak sensitivity of the dark-adapted human eye. The residual reflection is extremely low, so that the least amount of light is lost for a night-adapted eye.
Can I use filters with the Baader Hyperion eyepieces?
Yes, the Hyperion eyepieces offer two ways to use filters. You can thread standard 1.25" filters (M28.5) onto the 1.25" barrel. You can also thread 2" filters (M48) directly onto the main eyepiece body after unscrewing the 1.25" barrel assembly.
Are the Baader Hyperion eyepieces suitable for observers who wear glasses?
Eye relief ranges from 17mm to 22mm, and the folding rubber eyecup can be stored folded down, especially for persons who wear glasses.
What magnification does each eyepiece give?
Magnification is the telescope's focal length divided by the eyepiece focal length. On a telescope of 1000mm focal length the set gives 200x (5mm), 125x (8mm), 100x (10mm), about 77x (13mm), 59x (17mm), 48x (21mm) and 42x (24mm). Exit pupil is the eyepiece focal length divided by the telescope's focal ratio.
Can the eyepieces be used without the first lens group?
Yes, for the 5mm to 21mm. The technical table gives, for example, 21.8mm for the 8mm without the first group. This is recommended only for afocal projection imaging; in visual observation a loss of edge sharpness will be experienced.
What is the difference between the M43 and SP54 threads for astrophotography?
Both threads are used for attaching cameras, but for different methods of eyepiece projection:
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M43 Thread: This is used for "classical" projection, where you attach a camera body without a lens (like a DSLR with a T-ring) via a T-2 adapter. This is ideal for high-magnification planetary imaging.
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SP54 Thread: This is used for "afocal" projection, where the camera's lens remains attached. This method is for point-and-shoot cameras or camcorders, using adapter rings to connect the eyepiece to the camera lens's filter thread.
Why is the 24mm Hyperion not parfocal with the rest of the set?
The 5mm to 21mm are in the parfocal group and the 24mm is outside it. No reason is given, so we do not guess one; expect to refocus when switching to or from the 24mm.
How do I change the focal length of a Baader Hyperion eyepiece?
You can change the focal length by unscrewing the 1.25" barrel, which contains the first lens group. You can then thread optional 14mm or 28mm Fine Tuning Rings between the main eyepiece body and the 1.25" barrel assembly. This gives a shorter focal length without a Barlow lens. The 24mm is the exception: its focal length is fixed.
What case comes with the Hyperion set?
The set comes with Baader's eyepiece case, which holds the seven eyepieces; it is included with the Hyperion beginner and complete sets and also sold separately. No further details of the case are available.
