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Shelyak Optical kit for Star'Ex LR spectroscope

Shelyak Optical kit for Star'Ex LR spectroscope

by Shelyak
SKU SHK-ES0039
CA$840.00 - CA$840.00
CA$840.00
CA$840.00 - CA$840.00
CA$840.00
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  • Build a complete Star'Ex Low Resolution spectroscope
  • Achieves a typical resolution of R=650 at 650 nm
  • Designed for the visible spectrum from 400 nm to 700 nm
  • Features an 80 mm focal length collimator and objective
  • 1:1 internal reduction ratio simplifies optical alignment
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Optical kit for Star'Ex LR spectroscope

    This optical kit provides the core components to build your own Star'Ex Low Resolution spectroscope, an instrument capable of a resolution of R=650 for analyzing faint deep-sky objects across the 400 nm to 700 nm visible spectrum. Based on a 1:1 internal ratio with an 80 mm focal length for both the collimator and objective, this kit is the starting point for a powerful DIY scientific instrument.

    Build Your Own Spectroscope: An R=650 Faint Object Instrument

    Designed for the amateur astronomer ready for a rewarding project, this kit enables the construction of a spectroscope optimized for faint targets like nebulae, galaxies, and distant stars. With a resolving power of R=650, you can capture distinct spectral features, allowing for scientific analysis from a backyard observatory. The design is fully compatible with the 3D printing files developed by Christian Buil, creating a clear and proven path from components to a functional instrument.

    The 400-700 nm Visible Spectrum Optical Path

    This kit is configured for spectroscopy in the visible range, from the violet edge at 400 nm to deep red at 700 nm. The included GEN 2 slit ensures precise light injection into the optical path. This wavelength range covers critical emission and absorption lines used to classify stars and analyze the composition of nebulae.

    An 80mm Focal Length System: What You Need to Complete It

    The Star'Ex optical design uses an 80 mm focal length for both the collimator and objective, creating a simple and efficient 1:1 system. This optical kit contains only these core optical elements. To complete the spectroscope, you must source all other components separately.

    • 3D-Printed Parts: The main body of the spectroscope must be 3D printed using the files available on Christian Buil’s website.
    • Mechanical Hardware: Fasteners, adapters, and other mechanical components, such as those offered by Azur3dPrint, are required for assembly.
    • Cameras: You will need to provide your own science camera for capturing spectra and potentially a separate guide camera.

  • What is included in the Star'Ex LR optical kit?

    This kit contains only the optical elements required to build a Star'Ex LR spectroscope. It does not include the 3D-printed housing, mechanical screws, camera adapters, or any cameras. You are purchasing the specialized lenses, gratings, and slit needed for the project.

    What kind of resolution can I expect with the Star'Ex LR?

    The Star'Ex LR is designed to achieve a typical resolution of R=650 at 650 nm when using a 23-micron slit. This is considered low-to-medium resolution, ideal for capturing the spectra of faint objects where collecting maximum light is a priority.

    What else do I need to build a complete Star'Ex LR spectroscope?

    To complete your spectroscope, you will need to provide the following:

    • The 3D-printed body and components, using files from Christian Buil's website.
    • A mechanical kit with all necessary screws and hardware (e.g., from Azur3dPrint).
    • A telescope adapter to connect the Star'Ex to your telescope.
    • A science camera for recording the spectrum.
    • (Optional) A guiding camera and module for long exposures.

    How would the Star'Ex LR perform on a bright nebula like the Orion Nebula (M42)?

    The Star'Ex LR is well-suited for targets like the Orion Nebula (M42). Its R=650 resolution is sufficient to clearly separate the main emission lines, such as Hydrogen-alpha, Hydrogen-beta, and the two Oxygen-III lines, allowing you to analyze the physical conditions within the nebula.

    Can I use the Star'Ex LR to study the spectrum of a galaxy like Andromeda (M31) with an 8" SCT?

    Yes, but it will be challenging. While the Star'Ex LR is designed for faint objects, a galaxy's light is spread out, making its surface brightness very low. You would need to target the bright core of M31 and use long exposures. The resulting spectrum will be continuous, showing the combined light of billions of stars, and you may be able to detect redshift with careful measurement.

    Is this Star'Ex LR kit suitable for infrared (IR) spectroscopy?

    No, this specific kit is optimized for the visible spectrum (400 nm - 700 nm). Shelyak offers a separate, complementary optical kit to modify the Star'Ex LR for near-infrared (IR) observations from 650 nm to 1000 nm.

  • Resolution (@650 nm) R = 650 typical with a 23-micron slit
    Wavelength Range 400 nm – 700 nm (Visible)
    Internal Reduction Ratio 1:1
    Collimator Focal Length 80 mm
    Objective Focal Length 80 mm

    • Star'Ex LR Spectroscope Optical Element Set

      This kit contains only the optical components. 3D-printed parts are not included.

  • Shelyak 1-Year Warranty