What is the primary purpose of the BDS-SC Adapter S88i to M48i?
Its primary purpose is to mount a Baader Diamond Steeltrack SC (BDS-SC) focuser onto M48 threads: the adapter's female M48 thread screws onto a male M48 thread on the telescope side, and its S88 dovetail clamp holds the focuser.
Which focusers are compatible with the BDS-SC Adapter S88i to M48i?
This adapter is specifically designed for Baader Planetarium's Diamond Steeltrack focusers made for Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (BDS-SC). It matches the S88 dovetail found on these specific models.
Why should I use this BDS-SC adapter instead of a standard 2-inch visual back?
A threaded connection is mechanically superior to a push-fit adapter held by thumbscrews or a compression ring. The BDS-SC Adapter S88i to M48i prevents:
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Flexure: Sagging of heavy imaging equipment is eliminated.
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Tilt: The camera sensor remains perfectly perpendicular to the optical axis.
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Rotation: The imaging train cannot accidentally rotate or slip.
What attaches to each side of the BDS-SC Adapter S88i to M48i?
The female M48x0.75 thread goes onto a male M48 thread on the telescope side, and the S88 dovetail clamp takes the BDS-SC focuser. Cameras and other accessories then attach to the focuser, not to this adapter.
Will this BDS-SC adapter improve my images of the Orion Nebula (M42) taken with an SCT?
Yes. For deep-sky imaging of targets like the Orion Nebula (M42), maintaining a rigid optical train is critical for sharp stars across the field. By using the BDS-SC Adapter S88i to M48i to mount your BDS-SC focuser on an M48 thread, you minimize flexure that can cause elongated stars, especially in the corners of your images during long exposures.
Is this adapter useful for planetary imaging of Jupiter with a C8 and a BDS-SC focuser?
Absolutely. While flexure is less of a concern with short planetary exposures, maintaining perfect collimation and alignment is key to capturing fine detail on Jupiter's cloud bands. A secure connection between the M48 thread and the BDS-SC focuser via this adapter keeps the focuser, and the camera and Barlow lens on it, rigidly on-axis, preventing any optical tilt that could soften the image.
