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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.

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Baader M68 Field Flattener

SKU BAA-2458260
Original price $929.00 - Original price $929.00
Original price
$929.00
$929.00 - $929.00
Current price $929.00
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  • Corrects field curvature for astrophotography
  • Designed for Baader APO 95/560 Travel Companion
  • Compatible with Zeiss APQ apochromatic refractors
  • Features large M68 threads for a secure, wide-aperture connection
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • Baader M68 Field Flattener

    The Baader M68 Field Flattener is a dedicated optical corrector engineered to eliminate field curvature in specific high-end refractors. It is precisely matched to the optical system of the Baader APO 95/560 Travel Companion and legendary Zeiss APQ apochromats. By using a robust M68 thread, this flattener ensures a rigid, wide-aperture imaging train capable of illuminating large format sensors without vignetting.

    M68 Connection for Flat-Field Imaging

    This corrector utilizes the Baader M68 system, a large-diameter thread standard chosen to provide a rigid connection and an unobstructed light path for modern imaging sensors. Unlike smaller M42 or M48 threads that can introduce vignetting with full-frame and larger chips, the M68 connection maintains the full illumination of the optical system. This ensures that stars remain pinpoint across the entire frame, from the center to the corners, without compromising brightness at the edges.

    Designed for the Baader APO 95/560 and Zeiss APQ Refractors

    This is not a generic flattener; it is a specialized corrector calculated specifically for the Baader APO 95/560 Travel Companion and classic Zeiss APQ refractors. Field flatteners must be matched to the focal length and optical design of a telescope to work correctly. This unit provides the precise correction required by these premium apochromatic systems, ensuring that their exceptional native image sharpness is delivered across the entire photographic field.

  • What is the purpose of the Baader M68 Field Flattener?

    The Baader M68 Field Flattener is an optical accessory designed for astrophotography. It corrects for field curvature, a natural aberration in refracting telescopes that causes stars at the edge of the field of view to appear out of focus. By inserting this flattener into the optical path, you can achieve sharp, pinpoint stars across your entire camera sensor.

    Can I use the Baader M68 Field Flattener with any telescope?

    No. This field flattener is specifically designed and optically matched for use with the Baader APO 95/560 Travel Companion and Zeiss APQ apochromatic refractors. Using it with other telescopes will not provide the correct optical correction and will likely result in poor image quality.

    Why does the Baader M68 Field Flattener use M68 threads?

    The M68 thread provides a larger clear aperture than more common M48 or M42 threads. This is critical for preventing vignetting (dimming at the corners of the image) when using cameras with large, full-frame sensors. The larger thread also creates a more rigid and stable connection for heavy imaging trains.

    Is the Baader M68 Field Flattener suitable for visual observing?

    While you could technically place an eyepiece behind it, this accessory is designed purely for photographic use. Field flatteners are not necessary for visual observation, as the human eye is much more tolerant of field curvature than a camera sensor. Its primary function is to create a flat focal plane for imaging.

    How does the Baader M68 Field Flattener perform with a full-frame camera on the Baader APO 95/560?

    The Baader M68 Field Flattener is engineered to provide excellent correction across large sensor formats when paired with the Baader APO 95/560. The M68 connection is specifically intended to support full-frame sensors, ensuring the telescope's high-contrast, apochromatic performance is maintained to the corners of the frame for objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000).

    What adapters are needed to connect my camera to the Baader M68 Field Flattener?

    The required adapters depend on your specific camera and the necessary back focus distance. Baader Planetarium offers a comprehensive system of M68 adapters and extension tubes to achieve the correct spacing for various DSLR, mirrorless, and dedicated astronomy cameras. You will need to consult the flattener's documentation for the precise back focus requirement and select the appropriate adapters from the M68 lineup.

  • Net weight (kg) 0.39
  • Baader Planetarium Warranty