HERSCHEL WEDGE FOR SOLAR OBSERVATION

 A Herschel wedge is an optical prism used in solar observation to refract most of the light out of the optical path, allowing safe visual observation. It was first proposed and used by astronomer John Herschel in the 1830s. 

 The prism in a Herschel wedge has a trapezoidal cross section. The surface of the prism facing the light acts as a standard diagonal mirror, reflecting a small portion of the incoming light at 90 degrees into the eyepiece. The trapezoidal prism shape refracts the remainder of the light gathered by the telescope's objective away at an angle. 

While the prism is constructed of special glass which absorbs UV and IR light, it cannot be used with a Reflecting telescopes designs such as SCT's Newtonians and MAK's.  This is because reflecting telescopes usually have a secondary mirror close to focus which may be damaged by the heat caused by IR light. This concentrated IR, in particular, can crack or unglue optical elements in a telescope, especially those located close to the focal plane, resulting in serious injury to the eye or possible blindness.  

Starfield Optics Herschel wedge for solar observation are available in 2" and 1.25" designs.  

The Starfield Optics 2" Herschel solar wedge transforms how you can observe the sun's surface including sun spots and surface detail

The solar wedge easily attaches to your refractor telescope, replacing the standard 2" mirror or prism diagonal. The solar wedge is imaging-ready since you can fine tune the image brightness without needing to remove your camera.

Solar wedges, compared to traditional film solar filters, are known to give you a higher-contrast image because it removes all reflections between the filter and telescope lens. 

The sun can be safely observed with the Starfield Optics Herschel wedge. Brightness can be adjusted by twisting of the 2" polarizing filter by rotating the 2" eyepiece holder.

Get ready to see sun spots and solar surface granulation like never before!

 Embark on a captivating solar observing journey with the Starfield 1.25" Solar Wedge. Designed for amateur astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts, this high-quality solar wedge offers a unique window into the dynamic surface of the Sun. 

While offering exceptional views, it's primarily suited for refractor telescopes up to 4" and may not be compatible with all telescope models.   For telescopes larger than 102mm / 4" we recommend our 2" Solar wedge model.