The Askar Focal Plane Adjuster is an advanced optical accessory designed to enhance the precision of image focus for astrophotographers. The tool allows users to fine-tune the focal plane position, improving imaging performance, particularly in deep-sky astrophotography setups.
To achieve optimal image quality, it is important that the focal plane remains perfectly perpendicular to the system’s optical axis. As sensor sizes continue to grow, precise adjustments become even more critical. The Askar Focal Plane Adjuster provides a method for micron-level adjustments of the camera sensor’s focal plane position relative to the telescope’s focal point. This capability is particularly crucial when using high-resolution CMOS and CCD cameras, where even small deviations in focus can significantly impact image sharpness and detail.
The adjuster is installed between the camera and the imaging train, allowing for small incremental changes to the focal distance. It helps in compensating for variations caused by:
– Telescope backfocus differences
– Temperature-induced focus shifts
– Small manufacturing tolerances in optical accessories
– Tilt adjustments to correct image field curvature
The Askar Focal Plane Adjuster maintains a low-profile design to avoid excessive extension of the optical path, which could introduce vignetting or affect backfocus. It is made from high-quality CNC-machined aluminum, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight design. The exterior is anodized to reduce reflections and provide corrosion resistance.
The spherical adjustment design allows for adjustment of the tilt angle without affecting relative distance, which provides more accurate and consistent adjustments. The adjuster features a front M54 thread and a rear male M48 thread for versatile compatibility.
The Askar Focal Plane Adjuster offers an angle adjustment range of ±1°, allowing for fine-tuned corrections. To enhance usability, a 5′ scale is printed on the body, making precise adjustments straightforward. With a compact 18mm thickness, this adjuster is exceptionally easy to integrate into existing setups. Additionally, users of select Sharpstar telescopes – including the APO series, Askar V, 71F, and 50EDPH – can directly replace their existing 18mm filter thread ring without the need to recalculate back focus, ensuring a seamless installation process.
You can learn more about the Askar Focal Plane Adjuster here.
And to make it easier for you to get the most extensive news, articles and reviews that are only available in the magazine pages of Astronomy Technology Today, we are offering a 1-year magazine subscription for only $6! Or, for an even better deal, we are offering 2 years for only $9. Click here to get these deals which only will be available for a very limited time. You can also check out a free sample issue here.