The SolarMax 90 Ha (top) and CaK (bottom) Telescopes.
The SolarMax 90 CaK telescope
is an excellent companion to Coronado's hydrogen alpha line of
filters and scopes. While not as dynamic as a Ha view, CaK does
show interesting details both visually and photographically.
I consider it the best imaging telescope ever made.
The "Calcium Network" is plainly visible and glows brightly
against the darker supergranuels. Active regions show up
better in this scope than with white light filters. Prominences
are detected through a camera only. The awe factor comes in when you
realize the scale of what you're looking at.
Calcium K Prominences
The difference between this
scope and the SM70 CaK is mainly the image scale. The views of
the solar phenomena are the
same except the 90 produces a larger image in the eyepiece and
on the screen.
Visibility
Because CaK emissions are
at the ultraviolet end of the spectrum, not everyone can see
them. Younger eyes have an easier time. As you age your eyes
yellow and tend to limit your view of the Calcium line. Don't
let this discourage you though! Try and take a look through a
CaK filter at a public event, vendor event or club star party
before you rule out purchasing one of these scopes. You might be
surprised.
Usability
The SM90 CaK telescope has
the same fine workmanship as other Coronado products. The
helical focuser has a firm feel and easily supports the weight
of eyepieces, barlows and cameras. Imaging can be accomplished
with a variety of platforms. The sliding diagonal allows you to
fine tune the view for just about any chip or lens. The blocking
filter supports only 1.25" accessories.
SM90CaK, SKYnyx 2-2 image
|
Focal
Length |
f/8.8,
800mm |
|
Magnification |
32x (25mm Eyepiece) |
|
Weight |
23 lbs. |
Summary
Solid mechanics,
portability and ease of use make the SM90CaK an excellent choice
for the solar enthusiast. This scope helps to make the most of
the Solar Minimum and will be a star performer at the Maximum.
Nov. 2007 Update:
Meade has discontinued the entire Calcium line of filters and
telescopes. CaK filters are still sold by DayStar and Solar
Spectrum.
See the Resources section
for more info on Calcium K at
http://www.sungazer.net/cak/calciumk1.html
.
