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Daystar Quantum H-alpha Solar Filter
Daystar Quantum H-alpha Solar Filter

Daystar Quantum H-alpha Solar Filter

by Daystar Filters
SKU DAY-.8QPE
CA$16,786.00 - CA$50,386.00
CA$16,786.00
CA$16,786.00 - CA$50,386.00
CA$16,786.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Bandpass options from 0.8Å down to 0.3Å for specific solar targets
  • Live LCD readout of the precise wavelength output, accurate to 0.1Å
  • Red/blue push-button wing shifting for observing Doppler events
  • Operates on 12VDC power for field use and includes a serial port for computer control
  • Available in Standard (SE) and Professional (PE) grades for different research needs
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Daystar Quantum H-alpha Solar Filter

    The Daystar Quantum H-alpha Solar Filter is an electronically-tuned etalon for dedicated solar observation, offering bandpass options from a wider 0.8Å to an ultra-narrow 0.3Å. Its precision housing provides a live LCD readout of the filter's output with 0.1Å accuracy and includes red/blue wing-shift buttons for detailed Doppler studies of solar phenomena. Designed for simple plug-and-play operation on refractors, SCTs, and Maksutovs, a green light indicates when the filter is perfectly on-band and ready for observation.

    Bandpass Options from 0.8Å to 0.3Å

    The Quantum filter is available in a range of bandpasses, allowing you to select the ideal instrument for your observing goals. Wider options like 0.7Å or 0.8Å deliver brighter views of solar prominences erupting from the limb, while narrower bandpasses of 0.4Å or 0.3Å provide the highest contrast for resolving fine details in the chromosphere, such as spicules and filamentary structure.

    Precision Wavelength Tuning with 0.1Å Accuracy

    At the core of the Quantum's design is its digital control system. A live LCD readout displays the exact wavelength being transmitted with an accuracy of 0.1Å, removing any guesswork. For advanced analysis, red and blue wing-shift buttons allow you to precisely tune the wavelength off the central H-alpha line, enabling the study of Doppler-shifted features like CMEs and other active regions moving toward or away from you.

    SE vs. PE Grades: Choosing Your Filter Homogeneity

    Daystar offers the Quantum filter in two distinct grades to match specific application requirements. The choice between them depends on the required level of on-band transmittance uniformity across the filter's surface.

    • Quantum SE (Standard Edition): Designed for most amateur and academic applications, the SE grade meets Daystar's critical quality control standards for visual observation and many photographic uses.
    • Quantum PE (Professional Edition): Intended for professional research where precise homogeneity is paramount, the PE grade undergoes additional quality control steps and testing to ensure the highest uniformity and on-band transmittance values across the entire substrate.

    12VDC Power and Serial Computer Control

    Engineered for both field and observatory use, the Quantum filter operates on 12VDC power. Each unit includes a 100-240V power supply with adapter plates for US, UK, European, and Australian outlets. A built-in serial port enables full computer control, allowing for remote operation and an on-screen display of the filter's wavelength readout for research and automated imaging sessions.

  • Which Daystar Quantum bandpass is best for prominences vs. surface detail?

    For observing prominences, a wider bandpass like 0.7Å or 0.8Å is often preferred as it produces a brighter image of these structures against the blackness of space. For high-contrast views of surface details like filaments, plages, and spicules, a narrower bandpass like 0.5Å, 0.4Å, or 0.3Å is superior, as it rejects more off-band light from the photosphere.

    What is the difference between the Daystar Quantum SE and PE grades?

    The primary difference is the uniformity of the filter's performance across its surface. The Quantum SE (Standard Edition) is ideal for visual astronomy and general imaging. The Quantum PE (Professional Edition) undergoes more rigorous testing to guarantee precision homogeneity and on-band transmittance, making it the choice for professional research applications where scientific-grade data is required.

    How do I use the Daystar Quantum filter's wing-shifting feature?

    The red and blue buttons on the Quantum housing allow you to tune the filter slightly off the central H-alpha wavelength. This is used for observing Doppler-shifted phenomena. For example, a solar flare moving rapidly toward Earth will have its light shifted toward the blue end of the spectrum. Pressing the blue button tunes the filter to that wavelength, making the feature more visible.

    Can I use the Daystar Quantum H-alpha filter on my 11" f/10 SCT?

    Yes, the Daystar Quantum filter is designed for use on Schmidt-Cassegrains, Maksutovs, and refractors. However, any telescope with an aperture over 80mm used for solar viewing requires an energy rejection filter (ERF) to be placed over the front of the telescope to prevent heat buildup and potential damage to the instrument and the filter.

    What power supply do I need for the Daystar Quantum filter?

    The Daystar Quantum filter operates on 12VDC. It includes a universal 100-240V AC adapter with interchangeable wall plates for international use, allowing you to power it from a standard wall outlet. For field use, it can be powered by a portable 12V battery pack.

    How does the computer control feature on the Daystar Quantum filter work?

    The filter includes a serial port that allows you to connect it to a computer. Using Daystar's Quantum Control software, you can manage the filter's wavelength tuning remotely. This is especially useful for automated imaging sequences, remote observatories, or for displaying and logging the precise wavelength data during scientific research.

  • Available Options 0.8Å, 0.7Å, 0.6Å, 0.5Å, 0.4Å, 0.3Å
  • Daystar Filters Warranty