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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.
Shelyak Alpy Guiding Module

Shelyak Alpy Guiding Module

by Shelyak
SKU SHK-PF0036
$1,128.00 - $1,128.00
$1,128.00
$1,128.00 - $1,128.00
$1,128.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Essential guiding accessory for Alpy 600 & UVEX spectroscopes
  • Ensures precise centering of the target star on the spectroscope slit
  • Utilizes a reflective slit for off-axis guiding with a separate camera
  • Adds 34mm of mechanical backfocus to the optical train
  • Lightweight 260g design minimizes impact on mount balance
  • Compact 90x65x75mm body for easy integration
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
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  • Warranty

  • Shelyak Alpy Guiding Module

    The Shelyak Alpy Guiding Module solves the primary challenge of astronomical spectroscopy by adding only 260g and a compact 90x65x75mm profile to your imaging train. This essential accessory for the Alpy 600 and UVEX provides a critical 34mm of mechanical backfocus, using an innovative reflective slit to ensure your target star remains perfectly centered for accurate data acquisition.

    Reflective Slit Guiding: Centering Your Star with the Alpy 600 & UVEX

    When observing a star's spectrum, the target must be placed precisely on the spectroscope's slit and held there. The Alpy Guiding Module makes this possible by replacing the standard slit with a reflective, slightly inclined one. This surface reflects the entire telescope field of view to a separate guiding camera, allowing you to see both your target star and the slit simultaneously.

    This system transforms pointing and guiding from a difficult guessing game into a straightforward, repeatable process. You can visually confirm the star is centered before an exposure and use autoguiding software to keep it locked in place for the duration of the observation. For any spectroscopic work lasting more than a few seconds, this module is an indispensable tool.

    Optical & Mechanical Integration: 34mm Backfocus in a 260g Package

    Designed for seamless integration, the Alpy Guiding Module is both compact and lightweight. At just 260g, it adds minimal load to your mount, preserving tracking accuracy and balance. Its 90x65x75mm dimensions ensure it fits easily into complex imaging trains without causing clearance issues.

    The module introduces a fixed 34mm of mechanical backfocus, measured from the module's body to the reflective slit. This is a critical measurement for planning your optical train and ensuring you can achieve focus with both your guiding camera and the main spectroscope camera. This fixed, known distance simplifies the setup process for reliable, repeatable scientific measurements.

  • Why is the Alpy Guiding Module essential for the Alpy 600 or UVEX?

    Without it, you have no way to visually confirm that your target star is on the spectroscope's slit. The Alpy Guiding Module reflects the field of view to a guide camera, allowing you to see the star and the slit together. This is critical for both initial pointing and for autoguiding during long exposures to prevent the star from drifting off the slit.

    How does the Alpy Guiding Module's reflective slit work?

    The module contains a specially designed slit that is mirrored and slightly tilted. This surface allows a tiny fraction of the starlight to pass through to the spectroscope while reflecting the vast majority of the surrounding field of view at a 90-degree angle to a separate port. You connect a guiding camera to this port to see the field and guide the telescope.

    What is the exact backfocus of the Alpy Guiding Module?

    The mechanical backfocus on the telescope side is 34mm. This is the precise distance from the main body of the guiding module to the surface of the reflective slit. You must account for this distance when calculating the spacing for your complete imaging train.

    Can I use the Alpy Guiding Module visually with an eyepiece?

    While primarily designed for a guiding camera, visual use is possible with an optional eyepiece holder (sold separately). This allows you to look through an eyepiece to center the star on the slit manually. However, for any long-exposure work, a guiding camera is highly recommended for autoguiding.

    How does the Alpy Guiding Module help when taking a spectrum of Vega (Alpha Lyrae) with an 8" SCT and a UVEX?

    An 8" SCT has a long focal length, creating a very narrow field of view. Finding and centering a bright star like Vega on the invisible slit would be very difficult. With the Alpy Guiding Module, you can use your guide camera to easily locate Vega in the field, place it perfectly on the slit, and then engage your mount's autoguiding to keep it there, ensuring all of the star's light enters the UVEX for a high-quality spectrum.

    Will the 260g weight of the Alpy Guiding Module affect my portable mount's balance?

    At only 260g (about half a pound), the module's weight is minimal. While you should always rebalance your telescope after adding any accessory, this small mass is unlikely to cause significant balance or tracking issues on most mounts capable of supporting a spectroscope and camera.

  • Mechanical Backfocus 34mm (from module body to slit)
    Weight 260g
    Dimensions 90 x 65 x 75mm (without guiding camera)

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