Skip to content
Daystar Quark Prominence Solar Filter
Daystar Quark Prominence Solar Filter

Daystar Quark Prominence Solar Filter

by Daystar Filters
SKU DAY-DSZ4P
CA$1,799.00 - CA$1,799.00
CA$1,799.00
CA$1,799.00 - CA$1,799.00
CA$1,799.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Hydrogen-Alpha Solar Filter (Prominence Model)
  • Integrated 4.2X Telecentric Barlow
  • Optimized for F/4 to F/9 Refractors
  • Standard 1.25" Eyepiece Barrel
  • USB Powered (5V, 1.5A)
Backordered
Request Stock Alert
Availability Info
FREE Shipping in Canada
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Daystar Quark Prominence Solar Filter

    The Daystar Quark Prominence Solar Filter revolutionizes solar observing by integrating a hydrogen-alpha etalon and a 4.2X telecentric barlow into a single 1.25" eyepiece-sized housing. Optimized for the 656nm wavelength, this all-in-one unit is designed for refractors from F/4 to F/9 and is powered by a standard 5V 1.5A USB input, eliminating complex setups.

    The First All-in-One Solar "Eyepiece"

    Daystar's Quark simplifies hydrogen-alpha astronomy by combining a telecentric barlow, adapters, and a Fabry-Perot etalon into one compact device. This integrated design eliminates the cost and complexity of assembling separate components, allowing you to simply insert the Quark into your diagonal, add an eyepiece, and begin observing. Its lightweight, eyepiece-sized form factor reduces weight on your focuser and makes it an ideal companion for portable solar setups.

    Integrated 4.2X Telecentric Barlow for Flat-Field Views

    At the heart of the Quark is a custom 4.2X telecentric barlow, fully optimized with coatings and an optical design specifically for the 656nm H-alpha wavelength. Unlike a standard barlow, this telecentric lens ensures the light rays are parallel when they pass through the etalon, delivering superior field flatness and sharpness from edge to edge. Internal baffles are also incorporated to maximize contrast, revealing fine structural detail in solar phenomena.

    Optimized for Prominences at the 656nm H-Alpha Wavelength

    This Quark model is specifically qualified to show prominences with maximum contrast and brightness. Instead of targeting a specific FWHM bandpass, it is tuned to make the faint, dynamic structures at the Sun's limb stand out against the blackness of space. This makes it the ideal choice for observing dramatic solar flares, eruptive loops, and detached filaments that extend far into the corona.

    USB-Powered for F/4 to F/9 Refractors

    Engineered for versatility, the Quark is designed for use with refractors with a focal ratio between F/4 and F/9. The internal heating system, which brings the etalon to its precise operating temperature, runs on a common 5V 1.5A USB power source. You can power it from the included wall adapter or any standard portable USB battery pack for all-day observing sessions in the field. The 1.25" output includes a non-marring brass compression ring to securely hold your eyepieces.

    Quark Prominence vs. Chromosphere: Which Model Is Right for You?

    Daystar offers two Quark models tuned for different observing goals. While both operate at the same H-alpha wavelength, their bandpass characteristics are different.

    • Quark Chromosphere: This model has a narrower bandpass, which increases contrast on the solar disk itself. It is the superior choice for viewing surface details like plages, filaments, sunspot details, and granulation.
    • Quark Prominence (This Model): This filter has a slightly wider bandpass. This design choice makes the fainter, extended structures of prominences at the solar limb appear brighter and more detailed, making it the definitive choice for observing eruptive solar activity.

  • What kind of telescope do I need for the Daystar Quark Prominence filter?

    The Daystar Quark Prominence is designed specifically for refracting telescopes with focal ratios from F/4 to F/9. It is not suitable for off-axis applications on Schmidt-Cassegrain or other reflector telescopes. For safe operation, an appropriate front-mounted Energy Rejection Filter (ERF) is required for any telescope with an aperture larger than 80mm.

    Can I use the Daystar Quark Prominence on my 80mm f/6 refractor to see solar flares?

    Yes, an 80mm f/6 refractor is an excellent match for the Quark Prominence. The Quark's internal 4.2X barlow will increase your telescope's effective focal length to 2016mm (480mm x 4.2), providing a large solar disk image perfect for resolving the delicate structures within solar flares and eruptive prominences.

    What is the difference between the Quark Prominence and Quark Chromosphere models?

    The choice depends on your primary observing target.

    • The Quark Prominence (this model) is optimized for viewing activity at the edge of the Sun. Its bandpass makes faint flares, loops, and eruptions appear brighter.
    • The Quark Chromosphere is optimized for surface detail on the solar disk. Its narrower bandpass provides higher contrast for features like filaments, plages, and sunspot structure.

    How will the Daystar Quark Prominence perform on a large prominence like the ones seen during recent solar maximum events?

    This filter is precisely designed for those events. It excels at revealing the faint, extended, and intricate structures of large eruptive prominences. You will see these features with high contrast against the black background of space, allowing you to trace their full extent as they arch away from the solar limb.

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

    The Quark is powered by a standard USB 5V, 1.5A connection. You can use the included 90-240VAC wall adapter with international plugs or, for field use, any small, palm-sized USB power bank that meets the power requirement. This makes it easy to conduct observing sessions away from AC power sources.

    Do I need other filters with the Daystar Quark Prominence?

    Yes, this is critical for safety. For any refractor with an aperture over 80mm, you must use a full-aperture Energy Rejection Filter (ERF) mounted on the front of the telescope. For refractors 80mm and under, a front-mounted UV/IR cut filter is strongly recommended to protect the Quark's internal components and improve contrast.

  • Daystar Filters Warranty