Ultra Narrowband Filters on Fast Optics: HyperStar, RASA, or lenses Brent Mantooth 2022-02-07 | This is a follow up to a longer video about narrowband filters and how bandwidth affects imaging for fast optics less than f/4. Baader Planatarium has Ultra Narrow Ultra Fast filters - what does this mean? This applies to lenses or RASA, or HyperStar systems and is based on my testing of Astronomik MaxFR filters. This is an extension to the longer video where I develop and discuss these concepts youtu.be/rtFX92dZE_wThanks to AstroGabe for posting his code that I usedgithub.com/gshau/fast_optics_with_narrowband/blob/master/bandpass_shift_nb.ipynb Baaders Ultra Fast Ultra Narrow filters: baader-planetarium.com/en/filters/(ultra-)-narrowband-/-highspeed/baader-3.5--4nm--f2-ultra-highspeed-filter-set-%E2%80%93-cmos-optimized-(h-alpha--o-iii--s-ii).html Chapters0:00 intro4:14 Pre-shift5:26 Ultra Narrowband7:48 Summary8:52 Calculations
Stop Eyeballing: Estimating Filter SNR in Astrophotography Brent Mantooth 2026-03-07 | This video introduces an upgraded cross-section tool that estimates the relative signal to noise ratio (SNR) of images. We explain the importance of SNR for narrowband imaging, emphasizing that better SNR leads to better results with less integration time, especially when working with different filters. This tool is a great resource for astrophotography, offering valuable tips and tricks for image processing and understanding dynamic range.Download the appgithub.com/brentmantooth/AstroCrossSectionsChapters0:00 Introduction1:11 SNR Approach2:05 Theory4:51 Example Calculation6:41 Narrowband Filters and Scopes9:34 Download At Github10:13 F/7 Analysis18:19 F/2.2 Analysis20:52 Summary#astrophotography #narrowband #signaltonoiseratio #SNR #astroimaging #filters #hyperstar #crosssection #imageanalysis #deepsky Keywordsastrophotography SNR, signal to noise ratio astrophotography, narrowband filter comparison, 6nm vs 12nm filter, narrowband astrophotography filters, astrophotography cross section analysis, astro cross tool, relative SNR astrophotography, filter SNR comparison, integration time calculator astrophotography, band shift narrowband filters, fast optics narrowband filters, HyperStar narrowband filters, f2 narrowband filter performance, f7 narrowband filter comparison, deep sky astrophotography filters, horsehead nebula filter comparison, background subtraction astrophotography, filter bandwidth astrophotography, dichroic interference filter band shift, astrophotography image analysis, astrophotography software tool, signal vs noise astrophotography, how to compare astrophotography filters, best narrowband filter for fast optics
Pixels to Profiles: Cross Sections in Astro Images Brent Mantooth 2026-02-05 | Comparing images side-by-side often falls short of explaining what truly changes. This video explores a more scientific approach to photo analysis, moving beyond simple photo rating. We discuss why a deeper image analysis is crucial for understanding image differences and how to provide effective photo feedback.Download the appgithub.com/brentmantooth/AstroCrossSectionsEver wonder why some side-by-side photo comparisons don't really tell the whole story? As a scientist, programmer, and astrophotographer, I often see that these quick comparisons miss what truly changes between images. This video explores a more scientific approach to photography analysis, moving beyond just 'which one looks better' to understand the underlying signal to noise ratio and the impact of various camera settings. Let's learn photography together and dive deeper into what makes an image truly different.Chapters00:00 Intro00:33 Cross-sections01:06 Raw vs rendered: linear data vs what you see on screen01:34 Histogram transform basics (black point, white point, nonlinear stretch)02:25 Why comparisons get tricky (same data, different stretches)02:56 Example: 6nm vs 12nm narrowband—why they look similar04:07 Demo: Astro Cross-Sections tool (setup + stretched images)05:19 Switch to linear data: the real SNR differences appear06:38 Log scale: handling huge dynamic range (stars vs background)07:05 Navigation tips: zoom, pan, reset view08:00 Exporting CSV for deeper analysis08:47 Registration/alignment: when images don’t line up + how to fix10:11 Color images: RGB cross-sections + comparing channels11:50 How to get the tool (GitHub, Python, executable)12:34 Updates since recording: UI tweaks + new features13:15 Histogram mode: compare distributions + medians14:13 Recap: what cross-sections reveal that visuals hide
DIY Neon Bulb Calibration Source Brent Mantooth 2026-01-18 | Build a low-cost neon calibration lamp for DIY spectroscopy and astrophotography using a standard 12 V DC power supply. Neon produces sharp emission lines from ~400–800 nm, making it ideal for wavelength calibration, H-alpha work, and narrowband filter testing.In this video, I show the circuit design, high-voltage inverter, current limiting, proper capacitor selection, and a perf-board build—all for about $20 in parts.⚠️ High voltage AC is involved. Build at your own risk.Perfect for astronomical spectroscopy, solar spectrographs, and UV/Vis experiments.🔗 Parts linksElectroluminescent Inverter $5/ea amazon.com/dp/B08Q7CNZ7F?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_titleFemale DC Threaded Barrel Jack Panel Adapter 5.5mm x 2.1mm Connector 18AWG Wire $1.40/eaamazon.com/dp/B091PS6XQ4?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_9 6x16mm Bright Red Light Neon Light Bulb Indicator Lamp $~0.10/eaamazon.com/dp/B07CPY6TM5?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2 Mini PCB Board Gold-Plated Solder Breadboard $1.33/ea amazon.com/dp/B09WZY8CFV?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2&th=1 Connector Kit ~ $11/kit (you need 2 parts out of this)amazon.com/dp/B01MCZE2HM?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_4 ¼ or ½ watt resistors, ~60K and 100K ohm (find a kit)High V (630 V) AC capacitor 0.1 µF (DO NOT USE electrolytic or ceramic capacitors), examples could be $20/kit, $0.08 /eaamazon.com/dp/B0DXZZWP11/?ref_=cm_wl_huc_item&th=1Chapters00:00 – Why spectroscopy needs a calibration source00:50 – High-voltage safety disclaimer00:58 – Overview of the neon bulb driver circuit01:23 – Output voltage, frequency, and EL-wire inverters02:14 – Neon bulb as the calibration source02:39 – Snubber circuit and stabilization03:00 – Breadboard build and test setup03:50 – Assembly Time lapse04:40 – Final functional test05:12 – Connectors, serviceability, and safety improvements05:43 – Wrap-upThumbnail creditsSpectrum image By Jan Homann - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6504316
Astro Camera Window Got Scratched - Heres What to Do Brent Mantooth 2026-01-08 | My ZWO ASI533mm Pro protective antireflection window got scratched. It is pretty easy to replace as you will see. This will work for any astro camera if you can find the right window. This is also a good time to replace the descant if it has been exposed to a lot of moisture. This particular window works on Here is the part that I used highpointscientific.com/zwo-d32-ar-window-for-asi1600-asi294-asi183-d32arThe window, which is a 32 mm round AR filter, is designed for the ASI1600, ASI294 and ASI183 series astronomy cameras. It is 2 mm thick and has a flatness specification of 1/4 wavelength.cameras like the ASI2600 may need the larger window.highpointscientific.com/zwo-d60-ar-protective-window-for-asi-cameras-d60ar2The D60 AR 60mm protection window protects the sensor from the accumulation of dust and humidity once it is installed. ZWO has designed the AR window to be compatible with the following ZWO cameras: ASI071MC Pro, ASI6200MM Pro, and ASI2600MM ASI2600MC Pro. I really am impressed with the precision screw driver set I use by i fix itiFixit Mako Driver Kit - 64 Precision Bits for Precision Electronics Repairchapters0:00 - Intro1:45 - removing the first layer3:05 - replacement part4:39 - here we go5:37 - remove the o-ring7:34 - mounting the new glass9:28 - reassembly
Switching Between Telescope Setups Just Got Easier Brent Mantooth 2025-02-09 | Over the years, my collection of telescopes and accessories has grown, and so has my obsession with getting every configuration just right. Whether I’m switching between deep sky and planetary imaging or experimenting with new gear, I realized one thing: keeping track of all these setups can get complicated—fast. That’s why I developed a tool to make it easier check out my Telescope Configuration & Back focus Manager Excel file download: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NIssLNKlIT73Da2qLQyF5neC-B0comaH?usp=drive_link The file is an excel workbook that has a parts database that you can use to assemble your telescopes in multiple configurations. I use it to help me plan and document all the details that let me quickly and confidently switch between telescope configurations and dial in the right back focus for pinpoint stars. I hope you find it helpful. Let me know in the comments if you have thoughts on improvements. NINA: Aberration Inspector - youtube.com/watch?v=GYayMrlp4Xw&t=4s Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:55 - Back Focus 2:43 - Demo 8:08 - Add a Scope 9:44 - Part Database 12:40 - Resolution 17:27 - Fine Tune 18:33 - Excel Tricks 20:19 – Closing
A Perspective on Orion Brent Mantooth 2024-02-18 | It is hard to picture scale for astrophotography and where to find things. The Orion constellation is pretty easy to find if you look for Orion's 3 star belt. This time of year you will see this in the south western sky early in the night. It wasn't until I started doing some of these images that I realized where some of these nebula were in the sky and how big they really are. This movie starts out at a 50 mm focal length, which is pretty close to what you would see by eye, then zooms in with a few different telescopes to show you the Orion nebula and the horsehead nebula. In the wide shot you can see that the stars are stretched due to the rotation of the Earth - even after only 13 seconds. The telescope images were acquired on a mount that tracks the stars so I don't get the star trails. The second time it zooms in the image is from a much larger telescope that used narrowband filters to show hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen (HSO). Those objects are big, but faint so we can't see them by eye.Info on the shots and links to high resolution images:Canon R5, 24-70 f/2.8 lens, at 50 mm, 13 sec exposureCanon R5 RGB, 60 mm APO telescope f/4.5, Focal Length 280 mm, 45 min exposureCanon R5 with narrowband filter, 60 mm APO telescope f/4.5, Focal Length 280 mm, 1.75 hr exposure (astrobin.com/rr73an)ASI 2600 Mono, EdgeHD SCT 9.25 inch with Hyperstar f/2.2, Focal Length 525 mm, 15 hr exposure (2 panel mosaic) (astrobin.com/7lmnh0/E)
Deforking a Celestron Alt Az SCT (CPC 1100) Brent Mantooth 2023-02-23 | I got a used Celestron CPC 1100 EdgeHD SCT Telescope and wanted to unmount the scope from the Alt Az mount so I could use it on my iOptron CEM120 equatorial mount for astrophotography. There are a few guides online, but it was still hard to visualize what all was going on. Hope this helps you.After this experience, I think I could switch between mounts in about 10 min to go from visual observing to astrophotography.Links:Deforking a Celestron CPC 925 – James Nethertonjamesnetherton.github.io/2015/06/06/deforking-celestron-cpc-925 Defork CPC 1100 - Cats & Casses - Cloudy Nightscloudynights.com/topic/769140-defork-cpc-1100 Extra Hardware:farpointastro.com/products/farpoint-dovetail-plate-celestron-11-inch-sct farpointastro.com/products/carrying-handle-and-farpoint-dovetail-accessory-adapter Chapters:0:00 – Introduction0:50 – Clutch1:55 – Handle Screws2:50 – Cover Removal4:17 – Mount Arms5:00 – Slide out the scope5:40 – The Aftermath6:39 – Equatorial Mount
Narrowband Filters on Fast Lenses: The Unexpected Trade-off Brent Mantooth 2022-02-07 | Narrower does not mean betterThis is a follow on to my longer video comparing various bandwidths for narrowband filters and is based on my testing of Astronomik MaxFR filters in this video youtu.be/rtFX92dZE_wThanks to AstroGabe for posting his code that I usedgithub.com/gshau/fast_optics_with_narrowband/blob/master/bandpass_shift_nb.ipynb chapters0:00 intro0:51 Hyperstar recap1:55 Calculation Updates3:10 Samyan Results7:26 Summary
Bandwidth choices for narrowband imaging with fast optics [4k] Brent Mantooth 2022-01-22 | I wanted to figure out if the cost of 6 nm filters was worth it, so I compared the 6 and 12 nm bandwidth MaxFR filters from Astronomik. The results were not what I expected, and it took more than a month of reading and analyzing to figure out why. This video is longer than I planned, but realized there is a lot to understand that is not clear in most sales documentation about these filters. You can skip around and look at the results, but understanding why the results came out like this has influenced how I think about why and when to use specific filters on fast optics like HyperStar or RASA, or the Nexus reducer on a Newtonian. These concepts apply to single-band and multi-band filters.I think a lot of people quickly blame the filter for image artifacts when it is actually something else going on, I show how to figure this out.Links:Microlens Diffraction: cloudynights.com/topic/635937-microlens-diffraction-effect-explained/?p=8967701Python Angle Calculations: github.com/gshau/fast_optics_with_narrowband/blob/master/bandpass_shift_nb.ipynbGreat resources:http://karmalimbo.com/aro/reports/Article%20-%20Narrowband%20Filters%20&%20Fast%20Optics_Nov2020_rev1.pdfhttps://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/primer/java/filters/interference/index.htmlChapters:0:00 - Intro2:05 - Hardware Config4:05 - Acquisition and Processing5:23 - Image Comparisons6:53 - Halo Images10:10 - Halo Analysis15:49 - Halo - Microlens Diffraction20:08 - Nebula Signal Ha26:05 - Nebula Signal OIII29:13 - Star Size29:51 - Image Summary31:10 - Fast Optics and Dichroic Filters33:36 - Blue Shift34:54 - Calculated Angles40:16 - More microlensing41:42 - Conclusions
How Narrowband do you need for Astrophotography? Analyzing Astronomik MaxFR filters Brent Mantooth 2022-01-09 | I have been trying to figure out if it is worth investing in the really narrowband filters, and haven't seen an in depth explanation of exactly what you get for 12 nm, 6 nm, or 3 nm FWHM filters. I have a hyperstar (f/2) and selecting narrow band filters that work on fast optics requires some extra considerations. Here is my attempt at analyzing the Astronomik MaxFR narrowband filters designed for fast optics, like the Celestron RASA or Starizona HyperStar. I am doing this for both my HyperStar (f/2) and Edge HD (f/7) SCT scope configuration. This is the first part looking at just the Celestron Edge HD with 0.7 Reducer and the Ha Filter.Turns out, I like to talk, my first pass at this was more than 30 min long, sorry if the edit is a little choppy.Links:My Astrobin page: astrobin.com/users/bmantoothCuiv and fast optic filters: youtube.com/watch?v=1tSsB5adACgBokeh topics: youtube.com/watch?v=MnnkKI2sTZ8 ImageJ (free image analysis): imagej.nih.govAstro Image J: https://www.astro.louisville.edu/software/astroimagej/Deep Space Dad looks at MaxFR filters: youtube.com/watch?v=bBKSaXRpf-w Chapters:0:00 - Intro0:30 - Filters for Fast Optics3:00 - Scope Setup4:00 - Filters with Halos5:44 - MaxFR Ha Filter - Halos?6:50 - Pixel Math9:51 - ImageJ and cross sections11:51 - Effect on star size15:11 - Nebulosity and background19:09 - Conclusions
Soap Bubble - Macro Photography Brent Mantooth 2020-12-27 | Just got a new camera over Christmas (Canon R5) and found something new to try. This is just a soap bubble. The only processing I did was a few mirror reflections in the post processing - otherwise the color is as you see it by eye!Details:Canon R5EF-100mm F2.8 at f/18, 1/100 s, ISO 40012+25 mm macro extension tubesThe soap ring was about 1.75 inches in diameter, and the field of view is just less than the ring diameter.
Opacity Expression Trick for Comet Star Effects Brent Mantooth 2020-11-26 | After watching a lot of how to videos on youtube, I though I would try to give back a little and share something I was playing with - and hadn't seen other people do.I used Adobe After effects to combine a jpg sequence of star trails and using expressions was able to make comets using a custom slider.Concept is to control the opacity of each layer in the comp as a function of its inPointVariables:thisComp.frameDuration -- time duration for each frameinPoint - time (on the comp timeline) when this layer becomes visibleoutPoint - time (on the comp timeline) when this layer has endedtime - for the comp timelinetframes = thisComp.layer("Variables").effect("DelayTime (frames)")("Slider")tSecs = tframes / (1/thisComp.frameDuration)linear(time,inPoint, inPoint + tSecs, 100, 0)
3 Hours of Star Trails | One Simple Adjustment Brent Mantooth 2020-11-13 | Started playing with star trails on the DSLR, this included a bit of light pollution, but was able to clean it up.Playing in after effects with a few expressions, was able to adjust the blending mode and delay between frames to alter the length of the star trails creating some interesting effects.7 November, 2020Hardware: Canon 5DM4 24-70L at 24 mm f2.8CooWoo dew heater 90 second exposures132 frames 3 h 10 m total exposure time
