What is the primary purpose of the Baader 1.7x Glasspathcorrector for Newtons?
Its primary purpose is to allow Newtonian telescope owners to use binoviewers. It solves the two main barriers to this: it extends the focal path by 1.7x so you can reach focus, and it corrects the coma inherent in Newtonians, ensuring the view is sharp across the entire field.
How will the 1.7x Glasspathcorrector affect the view in my 12" f/4 Dobsonian?
In a 12" f/4 Dobsonian, this corrector will make your telescope operate at f/6.8 (4 x 1.7). This has two main benefits: first, it will allow your binoviewer to reach focus, which is nearly impossible at f/4. Second, it will deliver sharply focused, point-like stars to the edge of the field, correcting the significant coma that is prominent in an f/4 system.
Will this Baader 1.7x corrector work with any brand of binoviewer in my Newtonian?
It is designed for the Baader MaxBright II and Mark V binoviewers, into which it is inserted. The former MaxBright Mark I or other binoviewers with T-2 but no Zeiss dovetail additionally need the T-2a Change Ring with Zeiss Dovetail (#2456320).
Why is correcting coma important when binoviewing star clusters like the Pleiades (M45)?
When observing a large object like the Pleiades (M45), you are using a wide field of view where stars fill the eyepiece from edge to edge. Without coma correction, stars at the periphery would appear as blurred seagulls, ruining the immersive "spacewalk" effect that binoviewers provide. This corrector ensures every star in the cluster remains a pinpoint, preserving the aesthetic of the view.
Does the Baader 1.7x Glasspathcorrector require special adapters to fit my 2" focuser?
No adapter is needed for the Baader MaxBright II or Mark V binoviewers: the corrector is inserted into the binoviewer (insert diameter 2" / 50.8 mm, including M48 filter thread). The former MaxBright Mark I or other binoviewers with T-2 but no Zeiss dovetail also need the T-2a Change Ring with Zeiss Dovetail (#2456320).
