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Starlight Instruments 3.0" Adapter and 3.5" to Convert 'AP Threaded End Cap' to 'SBIG STL 11000' Threads

by Starlight Instruments
SKU SI-A35-505AP-1
CA$140.00 - CA$140.00
CA$140.00
CA$140.00 - CA$140.00
CA$140.00
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  • Connects Starlight focusers with Astro-Physics threaded end caps to SBIG STL-11000 series cameras
  • Creates a rigid, secure, all-threaded imaging train
  • Designed for 3.0" and 3.5" Starlight Instruments focusers
  • Eliminates potential tilt and flexure from compression fittings
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Warranty

  • Starlight Instruments 3.0" & 3.5" Adapter for A-P End Cap to SBIG STL-11000 Threads

    This Starlight Instruments adapter provides a direct, secure threaded connection between a Starlight focuser equipped with an Astro-Physics (A-P) threaded end cap and an SBIG STL-11000 series camera. By creating a rigid, all-threaded optical train, it eliminates the potential for tilt, sag, or rotation that can occur with generic slip-fit or compression ring adapters. This component is essential for imagers who need to maintain perfect axial alignment for critical, long-exposure astrophotography.

    A Dedicated Threaded Connection for SBIG STL-11000 Cameras

    When assembling an imaging train with a large-format CCD like the SBIG STL-11000, every connection point is a potential source of flexure. This adapter replaces weaker connection methods with a robust, direct-thread solution. It ensures that your camera, filter wheel, and focuser are coupled with maximum rigidity, preserving the collimation and focus of your optical system throughout an imaging session.

    • Eliminates Flexure: A solid-threaded connection prevents the subtle tilt and sag that can ruin flat frames and elongate stars at the edge of the field, especially with heavy camera packages.
    • Maintains Orthogonality: Ensures your camera's sensor remains perfectly perpendicular to the optical axis, a critical requirement for achieving a flat, sharp field of focus from corner to corner.
    • Simple Integration: Designed to thread directly onto the Starlight Instruments 3.0" or 3.5" focuser's Astro-Physics style end cap and the SBIG STL-11000 camera body, creating a seamless and secure link.

  • What is the purpose of this Starlight Instruments adapter?

    This adapter is designed for a single, specific purpose: to connect a Starlight Instruments 3.0" or 3.5" focuser that has an Astro-Physics (A-P) threaded end cap directly to the threads of an SBIG STL-11000 series camera. It creates a secure, all-threaded connection for a stable imaging train.

    Why use this threaded adapter instead of a 2" nosepiece for my SBIG STL-11000?

    A standard 2" nosepiece held by thumbscrews or a compression ring can introduce slight tilt or sag, especially with a heavy camera like the SBIG STL-11000. This dedicated threaded adapter eliminates that risk by creating a rigid, fixed connection, which is critical for maintaining a flat field and round stars during long exposures.

    Does this adapter work with original Astro-Physics focusers?

    This adapter is specifically made for Starlight Instruments focusers that are fitted with an Astro-Physics (A-P) compatible threaded end cap. It is not designed to attach directly to a stock Astro-Physics focuser drawtube.

    Will this adapter introduce any tilt into my imaging train?

    No, the primary benefit of this adapter is to prevent tilt. By creating a direct, metal-on-metal threaded connection, it ensures your SBIG STL-11000 camera remains perfectly aligned with the focuser axis, which is essential for high-resolution imaging.

    How does this adapter help when imaging faint objects like the Pelican Nebula (IC 5070) with my SBIG STL-11000?

    Imaging faint targets like the Pelican Nebula (IC 5070) requires long sub-exposures where equipment stability is paramount. The rigidity provided by this threaded adapter prevents microscopic shifts or flexure as your telescope tracks across the sky. This stability ensures consistently sharp stars and a flat field, which is vital for stacking many hours of data on faint deep-sky objects.

    Which Starlight Instruments focusers is this adapter designed for?

    As indicated in the title, this adapter is designed to be used with Starlight Instruments' 3.0" and 3.5" Feather Touch focusers, provided they are equipped with the appropriate Astro-Physics threaded end cap.

  • Starlight Instruments 2-Year Warranty