Orion Bahtinov PinPoint Focusing Mask

HIGHLIGHTS

Also known as Bahtinov masks, Orion PinPoint Focusing Masks will help you achieve precise focus in seconds
This PinPoint Mask fits telescope tubes with a range of outer diameters
Orion PinPoint Focusing Masks produce a distinct, intersecting 3-line pattern once accurate focus is achieved
Three Orion-exclusive adjustable padded pegs provide a secure grip once installed on a telescope
Compatible with any type of telescope, and especially useful for astrophotography setups

Please see the Specifications tab for sizing details.

This innovative focus mask concept was invented by a Russian amateur astronomer, Paul Bahtinov.

The Bahtinov mask allows digital astrophotographers and visual observers to get razor sharp focus in seconds!

The difference in focuser position between the four pictures shown below is very small, a few tenths of a mm. The method is very fast and incredibly sensitive. There is no guessing when you are focused during times of poor to moderate seeing. Simply put the mask and the status of your focus will become immediately apparent.

The masks have a series of slots that create a unique diffraction pattern that can be used to quickly bring your telescope to focus with an absolute minimum of fuss.

Astro Photography Tool (APT)
We are happy to provide a link to an excellent astrophotography tool called APT (Astro Photography Tool) www.astroplace.net. APT has a function called Bahtinov Aid based on Bahtinov Grabber technology and it provides an excellent visual and digital reference when using a Bahtinov mask to come to focus. We do not sell or provide support for APT.

Above is an example of our Orion Bahtinov Masks. Lightweight, precision CNC cut, non flexing and with adjustable rubber tabs to get a quick and easy fit.

Click on this thumbnail for a larger image of the Bahtinov Grabber from APT.

How to Use a Bahtinov Mask
First of all, the masks come with three adjustable rubber bumpers. This allows them to fit to a wide variety of tube diameters. Simply push the bumper to the desired location on the slot to ensure that the mask is properly centered over your optic. The plastic masks will require the user to devise a method of attachment. We suggest masking tape.

Then focus. The graphic below describes visually what you will see on either side of being focused. This graphic represents movement of the focuser in very small amounts (fractions of a mm). It is extremely sensitive.

The Bahtinov Mask is probably the easiest product on the market to achieve tight focus for visual use and for digital astrophotographers, regardless of whether you use a DSLR or CCD camera.

• greatly facilitates focusing for astrophotography
• is more sensitive to de-focus than digital methods (FWHM, FocusMax, Robofocus etc.)
• a universal system for attaching the mask on the tube
• made on a digital machine tool made of resistant plastic

Select Optical Size

From $8.92

Original: $25.48

Orion Bahtinov PinPoint Focusing Mask—

$25.48

$8.92