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Shelyak Optical kit for Star'Ex HR spectrograph - additional kit for Sol'Ex

Shelyak Optical kit for Star'Ex HR spectrograph - additional kit for Sol'Ex

by Shelyak
SKU SHK-ES0037
$179.00 - $179.00
$179.00
$179.00 - $179.00
$179.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Enables spectral resolution up to R=30,000
  • Covers the visible spectrum from 400 nm to 700 nm
  • Designed for DIY 3D-printed spectrograph projects
  • Internal optical reduction ratio of 125:80
  • Includes the GEN 2 slit for precise results
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  • Description
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  • Optical kit for Star'Ex HR spectrograph - additional kit for Sol'Ex

    This add-on optical kit turns your existing Sol'Ex into a Star'Ex HR spectrograph capable of a spectral resolution up to R=30,000. It is designed to operate across the visible spectrum, from 400 nm to 700 nm, with the 125:80 ratio of the Sol'Ex optics.

    High-Resolution Spectroscopy: Up to R=30,000 Across the 400-700 nm Range

    The Star'Ex HR optical kit enables the detailed analysis of bright stellar and nebular spectra. A resolution of up to R=30,000 allows you to resolve fine details in spectral lines that are invisible to lower-resolution instruments, making it possible to study Doppler shifts, line broadening, and the complex chemistry of stars. The operational range of 400 nm to 700 nm ensures full coverage of the visible light spectrum.

    A 125:80 Reduction Ratio for Your 3D-Printed Spectrograph

    This kit is intended for Sol'Ex owners who build their instrument through 3D printing. It contains only the essential optical elements, including the new GEN 2 slit, but does not include any mechanical or 3D-printed parts. The 125:80 ratio comes from the Sol'Ex objective (125 mm) and collimator (80 mm) focal lengths. You must source the 3D printing files (available from Christian Buil's website) and all mechanical components separately.

    Star'Ex HR vs. Sol'Ex: From Solar Studies to High-Resolution Stellar Work

    While the Sol'Ex project is optimized for studying a single, bright, extended source—the Sun—the Star'Ex HR adapts the concept for high-resolution spectroscopy of bright objects such as stars and nebulae. The Star'Ex HR is the ideal solution for moving beyond solar observation to analyze the spectra of individual stars, planetary nebulae, and other bright emission targets. This optical kit provides the foundation for that transition, enabling more advanced scientific investigations.

  • What else do I need to build a complete Star'Ex HR spectrograph with this kit?

    This kit contains only the optical components. To complete the project, you will need your existing Sol'Ex (this add-on kit turns it into a Star'Ex HR), the 3D-printed Star'Ex parts, all necessary screws and hardware, a guiding camera, and a science camera. The 3D printing files are available for free on Christian Buil's website, and mechanical kits are offered by third parties like Azur3dPrint.

    What can I observe with the Star'Ex HR's R=30,000 resolution?

    A spectral resolution of R=30,000 allows for detailed professional-amateur studies. You can clearly resolve the Sodium D lines (D1 and D2) in stellar spectra, measure the rotational velocity of stars through Doppler broadening, or observe Zeeman splitting in the spectral lines of stars with strong magnetic fields. It reveals a level of detail far beyond what is possible with simple grating spectrographs.

    Can I use the Star'Ex HR optical kit for solar observing like the Sol'Ex?

    This add-on kit is for Sol'Ex owners: it turns your existing Sol'Ex into a Star'Ex HR for high-resolution spectra of stars, nebulae and other bright objects. It adds the guiding optics (two 12.5 mm doublets and a 15x15 mm mirror) and the GEN 2 multi-width slit.

    How would the Star'Ex HR perform on a bright Be star like Gamma Cassiopeiae?

    The Star'Ex HR is exceptionally well-suited for targets like Gamma Cassiopeiae. Its high resolution would allow you to clearly resolve the double-peaked H-alpha emission line profile, which is characteristic of the gaseous disk surrounding Be stars. Monitoring changes in this profile over time is a key area of pro-am research that this instrument makes accessible.

    Can I use the Star'Ex HR with an 8" f/10 SCT to study the Orion Nebula (M42)?

    Yes, an 8" SCT is a great match for the Star'Ex HR. When pointed at the Trapezium region of the Orion Nebula (M42), you could use the spectrograph to separate the distinct emission lines of Hydrogen (H-alpha, H-beta) and Oxygen ([OIII]). The high resolution would allow you to study the velocity structure and turbulence within the nebula's brightest regions.

    Where can I find the 3D printing files for the Star'Ex HR spectrograph?

    The complete set of 3D printing files (STL format) and assembly instructions for the Star'Ex HR project are maintained by its creator, Christian Buil. They can be downloaded directly from his personal website, which is the official source for the project.

  • Spectral Resolution (R) R = 700 to R = 30,000 depending on the slit width chosen
    Wavelength Range 400 nm – 700 nm
    Internal Reduction Ratio 125 : 80
    Fits spectrograph Sol'Ex
    Resolving Power (R) R = 700 to 30,000 (depending on slit width)

    • Optical Kit Components (This kit contains only the required optical elements, namely two 12.5 mm doublets (50 mm focal length), a 15x15 mm mirror and the GEN 2 multi-width slit (14/20/26/32 µm). 3D-printed parts, mechanical hardware, adapters, and cameras are not included and must be sourced separately.)

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