Baader Hyperion Universal Zoom Mark IV 8-24mm - 1.25"/2"

An 8-24mm Zoom Optimized for High-Power Viewing

Many zoom eyepieces lose sharpness and field size at high magnification; the Hyperion Zoom was designed the other way around. The optical formula, glass selection, and lens polish quality were all optimized for the highest magnification setting of 8mm. As you zoom in, the apparent field grows, from 48° at 24mm through 53°, 58° and 63° to 68° at 8mm.

The 7-element, 4-group optical system uses Baader's Phantom Coating Group multicoatings and is a flatfield design, sharp right to the edge of the field.

The Redesigned 290g, 55mm Body for Binoviewing

The Mark IV weighs 290g (309g with the 2" nosepiece), 80g less than its predecessor, and has a 55mm diameter so that a pair can be used from 55mm interpupillary distance.

The zoom mechanism and the inner rails for all lens groups were modified to improve operation at cold temperatures, and parfocality at each focal length was fine-tuned. Three eyecups are supplied: the large height-adjustable eyecup, a non-folding rubber eyecup that Baader prefers for observers without glasses at a binoviewer, and a lower eyecup with a foldable winged shield for wearers of glasses, whose side shields block stray light. Removing the adjustable eyecup exposes the M43 thread and gives maximum nose space at a binoviewer.

Precise 8/12/16/20/24mm Click-Stops for Synchronized Views

The Hyperion Zoom was designed from the ground up to be used with binoviewers, and the Mark IV has a smoothed click-stop action. The eyepiece locks into five key focal lengths: 8mm, 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 24mm. This allows you to set two eyepieces to the exact same magnification easily, even in the dark.

The click sound has been smoothed so that hunters and birders will not disturb their targets. The zoom itself is stepless between the stops.

A Modular System: 1.25", 2", and Spotting Scope Adapters

The Mark IV comes with both the 2" and 1.25" nosepieces mounted, each with its own dust cap, and both nosepieces are threaded to accept 1.25" or 2" eyepiece filters. Instead of undercuts, Baader's Zero-Tilt Safety Kerfs reduce the tendency of the eyepiece to slip from an unlocked eyepiece clamp. Either the 1.25" or the 2" nosepiece is used, not both at once.

• Adapter 'A' (Spotting Scopes): This adapter allows the eyepiece to sit almost 4mm deeper inside a spotting scope's focuser, to safely reach infinity focus; with it, the Mark IV focuses with all spotting scopes tested. With the 1.25" nosepiece removed, a 1 3/8" thread inside the A ring lets the Mark IV thread onto Celestron Ultima spotting scopes and their namesakes.
• Adapter 'B' (Telescopes): On a telescope, the B ring keeps the bottom of the eyepiece flush with the upper end of most star diagonals, so the 2" SC-threaded holding ring does not rest on the diagonal's clamping screws.
• Direct SC Thread: The supplied 2" SC ring lets the Mark IV mount firmly onto any SC thread, and onto Baader's 2" ClickLock star diagonal with the 2"/2" adapter (#1508020); the optional 2"/2" changer ring (#1508080) also allows direct connection to telescopes or mirrors/prisms.

Photographic Integration: The M43 Thread and T-2 System

At the top of the eyepiece, beneath the removable eyecup, is a standard M43 photo/video thread. It can directly attach most video cameras.

Using the optional Baader M43/T-2 adapter ring (#2958080), any DSLR or T-2 accessory can be attached. The transition ring M43/SP54 (#2958086) gives access to the Hyperion DT ring system for connecting camera lenses, and the optional M43/M43 spacer ring (#2954250, 7.5mm) raises the eyecups or lets M43 cameras attach without the lenses touching.

Extending the Range: The Optional 2.25x Hyperion Barlow

When paired with the optional Hyperion 2.25x Barlow Lens (#2956180, sold separately), the Mark IV's focal length range is transformed from 8-24mm into a high-power 3.6-10.7mm zoom. The Barlow is a triplet with an anastigmatic flatfield design and Phantom Coating Group.

It attaches to the 1.25" nosepiece. With it, the click-stop focal lengths become 3.6, 5.3, 7.1, 8.9 and 10.7mm. The Mark IV is also available as a set with the Barlow (#2454827).

Hyperion Zoom Mark IV vs. Mark III: Key Upgrades

The fourth generation brings these changes:

• Weight and Profile: 290g, 80g lighter than its predecessor, with a 55mm diameter for use from 55mm interpupillary distance.
• Mechanics: The click-stop action has been smoothed for easier adjustments, the zoom mechanism was modified for cold temperatures, and parfocality at each focal length was fine-tuned.
• Back Focus: Almost 4mm more backfocus, which is most beneficial with a multitude of spotting scopes.
• Included Accessories: Three eyecups, spotting scope adapter A, telescope adapter B and a soft pouch with belt strap are supplied.