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Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter
Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter
Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter

Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter

by Daystar Filters
SKU DAY-DSZMG
CA$2,093.00 - CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00 - CA$2,093.00
CA$2,093.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Observe the unique Magnesium I (Mg I) solar spectral line
  • All-in-one design fits standard 1.25" diagonals
  • Integrated 4.2X telecentric Barlow lens for superior field flatness
  • Optimized for F/4 to F/9 refractors
  • USB-powered for convenient field use
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter

    The Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter brings the unique Mg I b2 spectral line to your refractor in a single, eyepiece-sized unit. It incorporates a fully optimized, integrated 4.2X telecentric Barlow lens to ensure a flat field of view across a wide range of refractor focal ratios from f/4 to f/9. This all-in-one design simplifies high-resolution solar observing by eliminating complex adapters, and its USB power input allows for extended sessions in the field.

    Observing the Sun in Magnesium I: A Unique Chromospheric View

    While Hydrogen-alpha reveals dramatic prominences and active regions, the Magnesium I line offers a different perspective on the sun's chromosphere. This wavelength is ideal for studying the quiet sun, revealing intricate details in plage (bright patches) and the chromospheric network that are often more subtle or invisible in H-alpha. The view is a unique window into the temperature and density structure of the solar atmosphere just above the photosphere.

    All-in-One Design with Integrated 4.2X Telecentric Optics

    Daystar has engineered the Magnesium Quark for ultimate simplicity and optical purity. The unit contains a custom 4.2X telecentric Barlow lens that is fully optimized for the Fabry-Perot etalon, ensuring superior field flatness and eliminating the need for additional components. You simply insert the Quark into your 1.25" diagonal, add an eyepiece, and begin observing without worrying about complex configurations.

    USB-Powered for Field Use with Standard 1.25" Connectivity

    Designed for portability, the Magnesium Quark is powered via a standard USB 5v, 1.5amp connection, allowing it to run all day from a small, palm-sized battery pack (sold separately). The housing fits any standard 1.25" eyepiece drawtube and features a brass compression ring to protect your eyepieces from scratches. While it has a 1.25" output, optional accessories are available for use with 2" eyepieces or SCT rear threads.

    Magnesium Quark vs. Hydrogen-Alpha: What You See Differently

    Choosing between solar filters depends on your observing goals. The Magnesium Quark and a Hydrogen-alpha filter show you two different layers and phenomena in the sun's dynamic atmosphere.

    • Magnesium I (Mg I): Excels at showing fine, low-contrast detail in the lower-to-mid chromosphere. It is the preferred wavelength for observing the structure of plage and the quiet-sun network. It does not show prominences or filaments.
    • Hydrogen-alpha (H-alpha): The classic choice for high-contrast, dynamic events. H-alpha is unmatched for viewing solar prominences erupting from the limb, dark filaments snaking across the disk, and the dramatic structure of active regions around sunspots.

  • What solar features can I see with the Daystar Magnesium Quark?

    The Daystar Magnesium Quark is designed to reveal features in the sun's lower chromosphere. You can expect to see plage (bright areas), the fine, web-like chromospheric network, and details in and around sunspots that are distinct from other wavelengths.

    What kind of telescope is required for the Daystar Magnesium Quark?

    The Magnesium Quark is optimized for use with refracting telescopes with focal ratios between f/4 and f/9. It is not suitable for off-axis use on reflector or Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. For safe operation, your refractor must be fitted with a front-mounted UV/IR cut filter or a full-aperture Energy Rejection Filter (ERF).

    Do I need an Energy Rejection Filter (ERF) with the Daystar Magnesium Quark?

    Yes, absolutely. For any refractor, a full-aperture UV/IR cut filter or a dedicated Energy Rejection Filter (ERF) must be placed on the front of the telescope. This prevents focused heat and UV radiation from damaging the Quark's internal components and is essential for safe solar observing.

    How do I power the Daystar Magnesium Quark in the field?

    The Quark uses a standard USB power connection (5v, 1.5amp). It includes a wall adapter, but for field use, it can be powered all day by a small, portable USB power bank, similar to one you would use to charge a smartphone.

    Can I use the Daystar Magnesium Quark on my 8" SCT to see chromospheric details?

    No. The Daystar Magnesium Quark is designed specifically for use with refracting telescopes and is not suited for off-axis applications on reflectors or SCTs. Using it on an SCT would not produce an even, on-band image and would expose the filter to concentrated heat, risking damage.

    Will the Daystar Magnesium Quark show prominences on the solar limb with my 102mm f/7 refractor?

    No. Solar prominences are best observed in the Hydrogen-alpha spectral line. The Magnesium I wavelength observed by this Quark does not show prominences. Its strength lies in revealing different structures on the solar disk itself, such as plage and the chromospheric network.

  • Wavelength Magnesium I (Mg I) b2 line
    Bandpass Approximately 0.3-0.5 Å FWHM (etalon dependent)
    Telecentric Barlow Integrated 4.2X, fully optimized
    Recommended Focal Ratio f/4 - f/9 Refractors
    Telescope Connection 1.25" Nosepiece
    Eyepiece Connection 1.25" with brass compression ring
    Power Requirement USB 5v, 1.5A
    Application Note Not suited for off-axis applications

    • Daystar Magnesium Quark Solar Filter

      × 1

    • 90-240VAC Wall Adapter

      × 1

    • International Plug Adapters

      × 1

    • Twist-Case for Storage

      × 1

  • Daystar Filters Warranty