In Stock!
Features
The HyperStar 8 lens converts a standard Celestron 8" SCT from f/10 to f/1.9, making the system 25 times faster. That means 25-times shorter exposures! Now you can capture deep-sky images without guiding and without an equatorial wedge (in alt-az configuration). The HyperStar lens shortens the focal length of the telescope, giving a much wider field of view, and giving a greater tolerance of tracking errors, allowing for unguided, alt-az imaging.
The HyperStar 8 is compatible with a variety of cameras, including CCD, CMOS and DSLRs. The HyperStar 8 covers up to a 28mm sensor size. Separate adapters are required for different cameras. One adapter is included with the HyperStar lens.
Optical performance is excellent, with a coma-free, flat field of view up to 4.1 degrees wide.
FAQs
Do I need the Filter Slider to use Filters with the HyperStar?
No, the standard camera adapter that comes with the HyperStar allows the use of one 2” mounted filter. This is ideal for light pollution or IR/Cut filters when using a one-shot color camera. Although, the Filter Slider is ideal for quick filter changes when using a monochrome camera.
Are HyperStars hard to focus?
HyperStars are no more difficult to focus than any other optical system. HyperStars can be accurately focused with Bahtinov Masks, AutoFocusers (ie MicroTouch Autofocuser), and any software that displays a Full-Width Half-Max star value. Although, the fast F/Ratio does make the camera’s backfocus much more critical. This is why the HyperStar camera adapters need to be precisely within +- .5mm of the camera’s backfocus.
Why do I need to specify my mount type?
We ask for the mount type to determine if you’ll need a counterweight shipped with your HyperStar or not. GEM mounts can accommodate the balance of the HyperStar by shifting the scope forward or backward on the mount, whereas Fork Mounted telescopes can’t move on the mount and require a counterweight.
What telescopes are compatible?
Factory-equipped Fastar-compatible C8 SCT telescopes have a removable secondary mirror assembly, allowing the use of the HyperStar 8 lens. If your scope is an older model and does not have a factory-equiped Faster-compatible secondary mirror you can order a C8 conversion kit to make it HyperStar compatible.
Will I need spacers to set the correct backfocus for the HyperStar?
No. We include a camera adapter with every HyperStar to set your correct backfocus. If you add a Filter Slider to your HyperStar, we'll include a filter slider adapter instead which will also set your correct backfocus. So the HyperStar will be ready-to-use. Simply install your HyperStar on the telescope and attach your camera, and you're ready to go!
Watch a HyperStar demo under light polluted skies using an Alt-Az mount.