Filters

Filters for Color Imaging,
Narrow Band Imaging and Photometry

Astrodon 1.25", 36mm, 50mm, 65mm	Baader Planetaruim 1.25", 36mm, 50mm, 65mm	Custom Scientific 1.25", 50mm
Astrodon LRGB Filters	Baader LRGB Filterss	Custom Scientific RGBC Filter Set
Astrodon Narrowband Filters	Baaader Narrowband Filters	Custom Scientific H-alpha Filters
	Baader UV / IR Blocking (Luminance) Filter	Custom Scientific UBVRI Filter Sets
	Baaader U and IR Pass Filters

Many of the best astro images seen in Sky & Telescope and Astronomy magazine are taken with monochrome CCD cameras and color filters using RGB or LRGB combination techniques (L=luminance, R=red, G=green, B=blue, C=clear). A luminance filter typically blocks UV and IR light, passing only the same wavelengths as the RGB filters. A clear filter generally does not block UV or IR but is used for maximum signal transmission over the full range of the CCD. By taking separate images through custom filters, and combining the results to make an RGB image, the full resolution of the CCD is utilized and a great deal of latitude is preserved for image processing.

In addition to traditional Red, Green and Blue filters, some astro imagers combine H-alpha with RGB to enhance the appearance of emission nebula. Three or four narrow band filters may also be used exclusively to create dramatic "Hubble like" false color images of emission nebula. Some of the most beautiful images taken of large emission nebula are simple monochrome images taken through an H-alpha filter. One of the benefits of narrow band imaging is that light pollution and sky glow is suppressed by the narrow band filters. With the right filter, it is possible to capture detailed images of emission nebula from one's backyard in the middle of the city under the light of a full moon!

Those studying variable stars and performing other photometric measurements use standardized UBVRI or BVI filter sets to record their observations. These photometric filters have evolved over the years to provide results that are as close as possible to the measurement obtained with earlier instruments such as the photometer.

All of the filters offered by SBIG are of the best quality. For current prices on all filters, click here.