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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.
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.
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)
Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)

Baader Planetarium IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)

by Baader Planetarium
SKU BAA-2451316
$212.00 - $212.00
$212.00
$212.00 - $212.00
$212.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Adapts the IMP85 instrument selector to telescopes with an IR90 focuser
  • Provides a short, rigid connection with a 20mm optical path length
  • Enables a permanent 3-port instrument setup on a single telescope
  • Maintains a direct, non-mirrored optical path for the primary instrument on Port 1
  • Facilitates automated switching for remote observatories and multi-purpose rigs
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • IMP85 Adapter S120a to IR90 Focuser Short (20mm)

    This IMP85 Adapter connects the S120a interface of the IMP85 instrument selector to a telescope's IR90 focuser, creating a solid connection with a minimal 20mm optical path length. The IMP85 system is designed for permanent multi-instrument setups, allowing you to switch between 3 different optical trains electronically. With this adapter, you can integrate the IMP85's straight-through Port 1 for a primary deep-sky camera, while keeping Ports 2 and 3 ready for a spectrograph or planetary camera.

    The IMP85 System: 3 Ports, 1 Straight-Through Optical Path

    Developed for remote observatory automation, the IMP85 instrument selector eliminates the need for manual equipment changes. This adapter allows you to integrate that system with your IR90 focuser. The core design provides a central, un-mirrored Port 1, ensuring your main astro camera receives 100% of the light from the telescope's optical axis without any degradation from a flip-mirror.

    This is critical for remote observatories that can't be physically reconfigured, or for public observatories that need to switch from an imaging camera to a visual eyepiece for guests in seconds. Once installed, your telescope can be used for deep-sky imaging, planetary video, and spectroscopy without ever detaching a camera.

    Electronically Switched Optics: Two 40x40mm Fused Silica Mirrors

    To access Ports 2 and 3, the IMP85 electronically inserts one of two 40x40mm fused silica mirrors into the light path. These high-quality mirrors redirect the telescope's focus to a secondary or tertiary instrument with exceptional repeatability. This means you can confidently switch between instruments knowing that focus and alignment remain consistent.

    The ports are designed with a clearly defined backfocus, allowing you to use standard adapters to make your various instruments parfocal. This minimizes refocusing time when switching between your main camera and your guide camera, spectrograph, or video camera.

    IR90 Focuser Adaptation: A Compact 20mm Connection

    This specific component, the S120a to IR90 adapter, is the mechanical link between your telescope and the powerful IMP85 system. It is engineered to provide a secure, non-flexing connection to focusers using the IR90 standard. With an optical path length of just 20mm, it helps conserve precious backfocus, which is often critical when building complex imaging trains with multiple components.

  • What is the primary purpose of the IMP85 adapter for the IR90 Focuser?

    This adapter's sole purpose is to mechanically connect the IMP85 instrument selector to a telescope focuser that uses the IR90 connection standard. It provides a secure, short (20mm) connection, enabling the use of the IMP85's multi-port capabilities on compatible telescopes.

    How does the IMP85 system, used with this IR90 adapter, benefit a remote observatory?

    For a remote observatory, the IMP85 eliminates manual intervention. An operator can remotely switch between a deep-sky camera on Port 1, a planetary camera on Port 2, and a spectrograph on Port 3 without needing on-site staff. This dramatically increases the telescope's operational efficiency and the variety of scientific or imaging projects that can be conducted in a single night.

    Does the main camera on Port 1 of the IMP85 lose any light from mirrors?

    No. A key design feature of the IMP85 is that Port 1 is a straight-through optical path. It does not use any mirrors. Your primary camera is placed directly on the optical axis, receiving the full, unobstructed light cone from the telescope for maximum signal.

    What kind of instruments can I connect to Ports 2 and 3 of the IMP85?

    Ports 2 and 3 are ideal for secondary instruments. Common configurations include:

    • A high-frame-rate planetary or guide camera
    • A spectrograph for scientific analysis
    • A video camera for broadcast or outreach
    • A simple eyepiece for visual confirmation or public viewing

    Is this 20mm IMP85 adapter all I need to connect to my telescope?

    No, this is one component of a modular system. You need the IMP85 instrument selector main body itself. This adapter is specifically for telescopes with an IR90 focuser. You will also need separate camera-side adapters to connect your specific cameras, spectrographs, or eyepieces to the three ports of the IMP85.

    How does the IMP85 help with public outreach at an observatory with an IR90 focuser?

    It allows an observatory to leave an imaging camera permanently attached for astrophotography (on Port 1) while having an eyepiece ready for guests on Port 2 or 3. With the press of a button, the view can be diverted to the eyepiece for a tour group. After they leave, the system can be switched back to the camera instantly, with no time wasted on re-collimating or re-attaching equipment.

  • Baader Planetarium Warranty