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Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter
Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter
Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter
Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter

Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter

by Daystar Filters
SKU DAY-DSZTCC
CA$2,093.00 - CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00 - CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00
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  • Transforms Canon or Nikon SLR lenses into a Hydrogen-Alpha solar telescope
  • Integrated, H-Alpha optimized telecentric Barlow lens
  • USB-powered, heated Fabry-Perot etalon for thermal stability
  • Supports both camera and eyepiece-based observation
  • Includes reversible mounting foot with tripod threads and Vixen-style dovetail
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter

    The Daystar Camera Quark Chromosphere Solar Filter converts your standard telephoto lens into a dedicated Hydrogen-alpha solar instrument, unlocking detailed views of the sun's dynamic chromosphere. This all-in-one adapter houses a precision DayStar Fabry-Perot etalon and an integrated, H-alpha optimized telecentric Barlow lens. Simply attach the Camera Quark between your existing Canon or Nikon lens and your camera body to begin exploring solar prominences, filaments, and surface granulation.

    H-alpha Conversion: Turn Your SLR Lens into a Solar Telescope

    The Camera Quark is an elegant solution for photographers wanting to enter the world of H-alpha solar imaging without investing in a new, dedicated telescope. The patent-pending design combines the necessary etalon and a telecentric Barlow in a single, lightweight device that mounts directly to your lens. This approach allows you to use the zoom feature of your camera lens to seamlessly shift from wide-field views of the full solar disc to high-magnification close-ups of active regions, all without changing your optical setup.

    USB-Powered Etalon: Stable, On-the-Go Solar Viewing

    At the heart of the Camera Quark is a solid Fabry-Perot etalon that must be heated to a precise temperature to remain on the critical 656.28nm H-alpha line. The unit is powered by a common USB power source, allowing you to run it all day from a wall adapter or a small, portable battery pack for field use. An LED indicator light clearly shows the filter's status, changing from warming to ready, so you know exactly when your system is thermally stable and optimized for the highest contrast views.

    Integrated Mounting & Adapters: Connect to Cameras, Eyepieces, and Mounts

    Designed for maximum flexibility, the Camera Quark attaches securely with a bayonet mount for either Canon or Nikon lenses. It includes the corresponding camera body adapter, but its utility extends beyond imaging. An included drawtube adapter allows you to insert a standard 1.25" eyepiece for direct visual observation. For stable mounting, a reversible combination lens foot provides both standard tripod holes and a Vixen-style dovetail, enabling you to mount your entire lens-and-camera setup on a simple photo tripod or a more robust astronomical mount.

    Manual Operation: Key Considerations for Modern Lenses

    The Camera Quark does not feature electronic pass-through, which is a critical consideration for use with modern lenses. You will need to operate your lens in full manual mode, controlling both focus and aperture mechanically. Lenses that require electronic signals from the camera body for these functions may not be compatible. For safety, Daystar also recommends using a front-mounted, color-neutral energy rejection filter (ERF) on any lens with an objective larger than 80mm in aperture to prevent excess heat buildup.

    Camera Quark vs. Dedicated Solar Telescopes: Portability vs. Aperture

    A dedicated solar telescope offers an all-in-one, optimized system, often with a larger aperture and internal ERF, but at the cost of being a single-purpose instrument. The Camera Quark's primary advantage is its portability and adaptability. It allows you to leverage the high-quality optics you already own, creating a compact, travel-friendly solar imaging rig that fits in a camera bag. While a dedicated scope might resolve finer detail due to a larger objective, the Camera Quark provides an accessible and versatile entry point for capturing stunning H-alpha images of the sun.

  • How do I power the Daystar Camera Quark?

    The Daystar Camera Quark requires a USB power source (5V, 1.5A) to heat its internal etalon. You can use the included wall adapter or a portable USB battery pack for use in the field. An LED indicator lets you know when the filter is warming up and when it has reached its stable operating temperature.

    Can I use the Daystar Camera Quark visually with an eyepiece?

    Yes. The Camera Quark includes a 1.25" drawtube adapter that allows you to insert a standard astronomy eyepiece. This lets you use your camera lens and the Quark as a complete, portable visual solar telescope.

    Will the Daystar Camera Quark work with my zoom lens?

    Yes, and this is one of its most powerful features. Using a zoom lens allows you to change your field of view and magnification without altering the setup. You can frame the entire solar disk at a wide setting and then zoom in to study a specific sunspot group or prominence in high detail.

    Do I need an extra filter for my 100-400mm lens with the Daystar Camera Quark?

    Yes. For any lens with an aperture larger than 80mm, Daystar strongly recommends using a front-mounted energy rejection filter (ERF). This filter reduces the heat load on the internal components of the Quark and your lens, ensuring safe operation and protecting your equipment. An ERF is not included and must be purchased separately.

    Will my camera's autofocus work through the Daystar Camera Quark?

    No. The Daystar Camera Quark has no electronic pass-through. This means no communication can occur between your camera body and the lens. You must set your lens to manual focus and, if applicable, manually set the aperture ring. Lenses that rely solely on electronic control for focus or aperture will not work.

    How can I image both solar prominences and surface detail with the Camera Quark?

    Capturing both requires different exposure settings. First, achieve sharp manual focus on the limb of the sun using your camera's live view. For prominences, use a higher exposure setting to capture the faint structures extending into space. For surface detail like filaments and granulation, you will need a much shorter exposure. It is standard practice to take separate videos or image sets for each and combine them during processing.

  • Available Options For Canon, For Nikon
  • Daystar Filters Warranty