Description
Starfield 1.25" Solar Wedge — White-Light Solar Observing for Refractors
The Starfield 1.25" Solar Wedge (Herschel wedge) is a premium white-light solar accessory designed for safe solar observation and imaging with refractor telescopes. By replacing your standard diagonal, a solar wedge provides a controlled, high-contrast view of the Sun’s surface when used correctly with the included filtering.
Best for: refractors up to 100mm aperture (about 4"). For larger refractors (up to 150mm), use the 2" model.
Key Features
- Versatile: ideal for visual observing and solar photography
- Simple setup: mounts like a diagonal on compatible refractors
- High-contrast prism: anti-reflection coated prism for detailed solar views
- Integrated filtering: adjustable CPL filter for comfortable brightness control
- Photography-ready: M42 threads for straightforward camera attachment
- Optimized aperture: 26.5mm clear aperture
Compatibility
- Telescope type: refractors only
- Recommended aperture: up to 102mm (about 4")
- Not recommended: Petzval or similar designs with a rear lens close to the focuser
- Not recommended: telescopes with plastic components
Need a larger model? For telescopes larger than 102mm / 4", we recommend the 2" Solar Wedge.
How It Fits Into Your Setup
The 1.25" solar wedge replaces a standard 1.25" diagonal on compatible refractors. The integrated CPL filter lets you adjust brightness without needing to rebuild your setup, and the M42 threads provide a clean pathway to connect a camera.
Safety & Important Information (Read Before Use)
- Refractors only: a Herschel wedge is intended for refractor telescopes due to the intense heat and energy from the Sun.
- Not for Petzval-style designs: do not use with telescopes that have a rear lens element close to the focuser.
- No plastic components: telescopes made with plastic components are not suitable for this wedge.
- Never place a filter in front of a Herschel wedge: filters must only be mounted after the light has passed through the prism.
- Solar observing can be hazardous: always follow the product safety guidance and use proper equipment.
Technical Specifications
- Format: 1.25" solar wedge (Herschel wedge)
- Clear aperture: 26.5mm
- Optics: anti-reflection coated prism
- Brightness control: integrated adjustable CPL filter
- Camera interface: M42 threads
- Recommended telescope: refractors up to 100mm aperture (1.25" model)
FAQ
What is a solar wedge used for?
A solar wedge is used for white-light solar observing and imaging with refractors. It replaces a diagonal and helps produce a controlled, high-contrast solar view when used properly.
What telescopes can I use this with?
This model is recommended for refractors up to 100mm aperture. It is not suitable for Petzval-style designs with a rear lens near the focuser, and not suitable for telescopes with plastic components.
Can I use filters with a solar wedge?
Do not place a filter in front of a Herschel wedge. Filters must only be mounted after the light has passed through the prism.
I have a refractor larger than 4". What should I use?
For refractors larger than about 102mm / 4", use the 2" Herschel Solar Wedge.