![]() ![]() You can also magnify the center of the pattern to get the focus just right. If you use camera control software, such as BackyardEOS, Astro Photography Tool, or the ASIAIR mobile app you’ll have the advantage of taking short test exposures that will show a much larger diffraction spike. The difference is, the image will be much dimmer, as you are essentially looking at a live video feed rather than a short image exposure. The same process applies using the Live View display on your DSLR or mirrorless camera. The ZWO ASIAIR has an excellent focusing tool within the mobile app that works well for this process. You’ll need to wait for the latest preview (in this case, every 3-4 seconds) to appear before making changes. Using a dedicated astronomy camera, loop the image in 2-3 second intervals with your camera control software. ![]() The diffraction spike pattern from a bright star using a Bahtinov maskĪs you adjust the focuser of your telescope, the central spike will move in and out of the X-pattern. It will appear on your DSLR display screen or computer as an “X” with a line through the center (when in focus). The openings in the mask design create a set of diffraction spikes on the star that will assist in the accuracy of our focus. This process is easier when the telescope is pointed straight up near the Zenith, so try to use a bright star that is high overhead to focus on. While appointing your telescope at a bright star, you simply place the Bahtinov focusing mask on your telescope’s objective lens and secure it into place using the provided rubber tabs. It is worth using a Bahtinov mask for visual observation?.If you are not interested in buying a Bahtinov mask, there are several free tools available online to help you make your own Bahtinov mask, including tutorial videos that help you build the correct size for your telescope or lens. A simple tool like this can help you capture sharper astrophotography images when used properly.Ī simple Bahtinov Mask design. The Bahtinov mask shown below is a popular choice, as it covers a wide range of entry-level refractor telescopes in the 65-100mm diameter range. It uses adjustable screws to secure it to the object of your telescope dew shield. This one has a thickness of 1mm, and is made from aluminum alloy. Make sure that you order the correct size for your camera lens or telescope objective. If you are willing to spend the money, you can save time by purchasing an inexpensive Bahtinov mask on Amazon. In the following video by fellow astrophotographer and friend, Nico Carver, he discusses the process of making your own Bahtinov mask at home using simple materials or a 3D printer: You can avoid this unfortunate circumstance by using a simple tool that effectively confirms that your focus is as sharp as can be, a Bahtinov mask. In many cases, I did not realize how bad the focus of my image was until I attempted to process the final image. Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of deep-sky astrophotography focus mishaps. ![]() With so much time and effort put into your polar alignment and autoguiding accuracy, it would be a shame to spoil a photo due to poor focus. This process is an essential step of any deep-sky astrophotography session. Focus Your Telescope with a Bahtinov MaskĪ Bahtinov mask can help you achieve a sharp focus for your astrophotography images. Niels Noordhoek.įree Bahtinov Mask Generator. The animation below shows you exactly how the diffraction spike pattern looks while focusing your telescope with a Bahtinov mask.Ī simulation of a Bahtinov mask diffraction pattern when focusing. I have been using a Bahtinov mask to focus my astrophotography telescopes for nearly a decade now, and I continue to use them for each and every imaging session. The mask creates a pattern that allows you to fine-tune the focus of the telescope to produce the signature “central star-spike” pattern. To use the mask, you simply need to cover the telescope’s objective and point the telescope at a bright star. The distinctive pattern of the Bahtinov design was created by Russian amateur astrophotographer Pavel Bahtinov in 2005. A Bahtinov mask is a clever tool for precisely focusing an astronomical telescope. ![]()
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