Skywatcher Heliostar 76 H-Alpha Solar Telescope

Skywatcher Heliostar 76 H-Alpha Solar Telescope

The Skywatcher Heliostar 76 mm H-alpha solar telescope represents a revolution in the Sky-Watcher product line, offering astronomers a dedicated system for solar observation in the hydrogen-alpha (Hα) band. This instrument makes it possible to explore extraordinary dynamics of the solar surface that go far beyond what a solar filter in white light can show. Phenomena such as solar prominences, active spots, flares, granulations, plasma filaments and much more finally become observable and photographable with high-end clarity and resolution.

Perfect for astrophotography enthusiasts and experienced observers of the Sun, the Heliostar is designed for shooting and observing our star. It is recommended in combination with the Skywatcher SUNGT mount for a portable and automated setup capable of automatically framing and tracking the Sun.

Advanced technologies

Etalon Filter Technology

The heart of the Skywatcher Heliostar 76 H-Alpha Solar Telescope is the etalon filter, a high-precision optical device that isolates the Hα wavelength from the rest of the light emitted by the Sun. An etalon is a type of interferometer consisting of two parallel mirrors separated by a precise distance. It works by reflecting light several times between the mirrors, allowing only wavelengths that meet specific resonance conditions to pass through.In Hα solar telescopes, the etalon is designed to transmit light at the Hα wavelength, blocking out all others.

Its ability to adjust the transmitted wavelength, either by varying the distance between the mirrors or by tilting the etalon slightly, is crucial to compensate for shifts in the Hα line due to Doppler effects caused by the movement of material on the surface and in the solar atmosphere.

Solis Etalon technology

Skywatcher's Solis Etalon technology allows the Heliostar to achieve a bandwidth of 0.55 Å without the high cost and complexity of a second etalon, while still offering detailed images of the solar disc without the need for additional expense.

Trifid Tuner

This mechanical adjustment system optimises the focus of the etalon filter, enhancing the observation of solar dynamics.

Hydrogen Alpha technology

Hydrogen Alpha (Hα) solar telescopes are specialised instruments for observing the Sun at a specific wavelength of light, 656.3 nm, corresponding to the red line of the Balmer series in the hydrogen emission spectrum. This wavelength is crucial for studying solar phenomena such as protuberances, filaments, sunspots and flares. Unlike standard white light telescopes, which capture the full solar spectrum, Hα telescopes offer a specific window into the activities of the chromosphere, the layer of the solar atmosphere located just above the photosphere.

Safety and versatility

The the Skywatcher Heliostar 76 H-Alpha Solar Telescope has undergone rigorous laboratory testing in the USA to meet ISO 12312-2 safety standards. Each telescope is individually tested on the Sun to ensure safe solar observation. In addition, the 11.5 mm blocking filter integrated in the removable diagonal offers an additional safety feature of the Heliostar. Do not use the telescope with any other type of diagonal.

Please note: this is a dedicated solar telescope, designed exclusively for observing the Sun. It will not provide images or views of other celestial objects. Observation of the Sun must be done with the utmost caution and following instructions, as incorrect use of the instrument can cause serious and permanent damage to your eyesight.

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