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Daystar Quark Combo Gemini Chrom/Prom Switchable Solar Filter

Daystar Quark Combo Gemini Chrom/Prom Switchable Solar Filter

by Daystar Filters
SKU DAY-DSZGC
CA$3,633.00 - CA$3,633.00
CA$3,633.00
CA$3,633.00 - CA$3,633.00
CA$3,633.00
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  • Instantly Switchable Prominence & Chromosphere Views
  • Contains Two Internal Fabry-Perot Etalon Filters
  • Optimized for Telescopes from f/15 to f/30
  • AR Coated for the 656nm Hydrogen-alpha Wavelength
  • Compact, All-in-One Eyepiece-Sized Form Factor
  • Requires Telescope-Specific Energy Rejection Filter (Sold Separately)
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Daystar Quark Combo Gemini Chrom/Prom Switchable Solar Filter

    The Daystar Quark Combo Gemini integrates two separate, dedicated Fabry-Perot etalon elements tuned for the 656nm hydrogen-alpha line, allowing you to instantly switch between prominence and chromosphere views in telescopes operating from f/15 to f/30. This all-in-one design eliminates the need to swap filters or refocus, providing unmatched flexibility for observing and imaging the dynamic solar atmosphere.

    Instant Prominence and Chromosphere Views: A Dual 656nm Etalon System

    At the core of the Combo Gemini are two distinct etalon filters, accessible via a simple push-pull slider arm. One filter is qualified to deliver the best views of broad, expansive prominences erupting from the solar limb, while the other is optimized for the high-contrast surface details of the chromosphere. This dual-system allows for immediate, real-time comparison between the two views without ever removing the filter from the telescope.

    Instead of designating a specific FWHM bandpass, Daystar qualifies each element visually to ensure optimal results for its intended purpose. This approach guarantees you see prominences with maximum extent and surface granulation with maximum contrast, tailored to the final application in your specific f/15 to f/30 telescope.

    Optimized for f/15-f/30: Integrating the Gemini with Your Telescope

    The Quark Combo Gemini is engineered for long focal ratio systems, specifically Schmidt-Cassegrains, Maksutovs, and refractors operating between f/15 and f/30. Proper and safe integration requires additional, telescope-specific components that are sold separately.

    • SCT & Maksutov Telescopes: Safe operation requires a front-mounted Energy Rejection Filter (ERF). For SCTs, an off-axis, aperture-reducing ERF is necessary to slow the telescope's native focal ratio and prevent heat buildup. Maksutovs at a native f/15 do not require aperture reduction but still need a full-aperture front ERF for thermal safety.
    • Refractor Telescopes: To bring a faster refractor into the required f/15-f/30 range, you must use a telecentric barlow, such as Daystar's 2.8x or 4.3x models, between the diagonal and the Quark.

    A Compact, 656nm All-in-One Design for Field Use

    Daystar consolidated the entire dual-filter system into a single, lightweight device with the footprint of a large eyepiece. This streamlined design eliminates the cost and weight of adapters and separate filter housings. Internal baffles and AR coatings optimized for the 656nm wavelength work together to maximize image contrast.

    The design also features reduced power consumption, allowing the Quark's internal heating element to run all day from a small, palm-sized USB battery pack (sold separately). This makes the Combo Gemini an ideal solution for field observers, educational outreach, and remote imaging setups where portability and efficiency are key.

    A Tool for Outreach and Imaging: Demonstrating Solar Dynamics at 656nm

    The ability to switch instantly between views is a powerful tool. For outreach astronomers, it creates a compelling teaching moment, allowing you to demonstrate the difference between limb phenomena and surface features with a simple push of the slider. You can even show the effects of wing-shifting on fast-moving prominences.

    For solar imagers, the Combo Gemini is a significant time-saver. You can capture high-contrast chromosphere images and wider-band prominence images of a fleeting solar feature in rapid succession, without the risk of losing the target or focus while swapping equipment. This ensures your comparison images are perfectly matched and captured under the same seeing conditions.

  • What is the main advantage of the Daystar Quark Combo Gemini over using two separate filters?

    The primary advantage is the ability to instantly switch between a prominence-optimized view and a chromosphere-optimized view without changing equipment or refocusing. This allows for direct comparison of solar features and is ideal for imaging transient events or for educational demonstrations.

    Do I need an Energy Rejection Filter (ERF) to use the Quark Combo Gemini with my 8" f/10 SCT?

    Yes, an ERF is absolutely required for safety and performance. For an SCT like a C8, you must use a front-mounted, off-axis, aperture-reducing ERF. This accessory serves two critical functions: it prevents dangerous heat from entering the telescope and it slows the optical system to the f/15-f/30 range required by the Quark for optimal contrast.

    How do I use the Daystar Quark Combo Gemini with my f/7 refractor?

    To use the Quark Combo Gemini with a faster refractor, you must place a telecentric Barlow lens in the optical path to increase the focal ratio to the required f/15-f/30 range. Daystar offers compatible 2.8x or 4.3x telecentric Barlows (sold separately) for this purpose. An f/7 refractor with a 2.8x telecentric would operate at f/19.6, which is ideal.

    Why doesn't Daystar specify an exact FWHM bandpass for the Quark Combo Gemini's two modes?

    Daystar qualifies the etalon in each mode based on its visual performance for a specific task, not a rigid numerical specification. The "prominence" setting is tuned to be slightly wider to show faint, extended structures, while the "chromosphere" setting is tuned to be narrower for maximum surface contrast. The final bandpass is dependent on the host telescope's focal ratio, so qualifying for the visual result ensures optimal views.

    Can I use the Quark Combo Gemini for imaging solar prominences and then the chromosphere without refocusing?

    Yes. The dual-etalon system is designed to be parfocal. You can slide the filter from the prominence position to the chromosphere position and begin imaging immediately without needing to adjust your camera's focus, saving critical time when capturing fast-changing solar events.

    What kind of power supply does the Daystar Quark Combo Gemini require?

    The Quark Combo Gemini has low power requirements and is powered via a standard USB connection. It can be run from any standard USB power source, including a wall adapter or a small, portable USB battery pack, making it highly convenient for use in the field.

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