What is the main advantage of the Baader Ultrashort Clamp's low profile design?
Its primary advantage is minimizing the consumption of backfocus. Many imaging systems, especially those using flatteners or reducers, have a very specific backfocus distance that must be maintained. This clamp's "ultrashort" profile allows you to add a secure 2" holder without significantly eating into that critical distance.
How do the dual M68 male threads on the Baader Ultrashort Clamp benefit my imaging setup?
Having male M68 threads on both sides allows the clamp to function as an inline component. You can thread it between two other M68 extension tubes or accessories, rather than only being able to place it at the end of the train. This gives you precise control over the placement of items like Barlow lenses or Telecentric systems for eyepiece projection.
Can I use the Baader Ultrashort Clamp with my Baader Steeltrack focuser and a heavy CCD camera?
Yes, this is precisely what it is designed for. The clamp provides a rigid, secure connection directly to Baader Steeltrack and 3.5" Hyperion focusers, preventing the flexure and tilt that can occur when using standard thumbscrew-based adapters with heavy imaging equipment.
What systems are the M68 and M60 threads on the Baader Ultrashort Clamp designed for?
The M68x1 thread is the standard for the professional Carl Zeiss system and is used extensively in Baader's own line of focusers, extension tubes, and accessories. The M60x0.75 thread is a common standard used by Vixen on many of their focusers and telescopes, making this clamp adaptable to multiple high-end optical systems.
Will this Baader clamp work for eyepiece projection with my Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope?
This clamp is an ideal component for building an eyepiece projection system. It provides the secure 2" holder for the projection eyepiece. To connect it to an SCT, you would need the appropriate adapters to go from the SCT's rear thread to the M68 thread on this clamp, such as a Baader M68-threaded visual back for your specific telescope model.
Is the Baader Ultrashort Clamp suitable for visual observing?
While it can certainly be used for visual observing, its design is optimized for imaging and system integration where backfocus and rigidity are critical. For purely visual use, a standard 2" visual back or ClickLock clamp might offer more convenient eyepiece changes, but this ultrashort clamp provides the most secure and compact connection possible.
