Quality characteristics of Astronomik filters

Astronomik filters were originally born out of frustration with the poor quality of filters from other manufacturers. The inconsistent transmission values and poor glass often led to significantly degraded image quality. Various articles even advised removing these filters to observe finest details. After an unfortunate experience of damaging the coating of a filter after a dewy night, we decided to develop something better.

After more than two decades of continuous refinement, Astronomik has become a globally recognized brand for high-quality astronomical filters. Both amateur and professional astronomers use Astronomik filters in instruments of all sizes for a wide variety of observing tasks. The largest telescope currently working with Astronomik filters has a mirror diameter of 8.3m.

Unlike mass-produced filters, Astronomik filters are designed, manufactured, tested, and distributed by a dedicated team passionate about astronomy. We ensure the highest quality by keeping production in Europe, avoiding compromises often associated with overseas manufacturing. By maintaining close collaboration with both customers and suppliers, we constantly seek improvements in our products. Each new Astronomik filter coating undergoes rigorous testing to fully meet our strict performance and quality standards. This means that it typically takes at least a year before a new filter is released.

In production, every step is carefully controlled and documented, with each Astronomik filter carrying a unique serial number for full traceability. The golden "Astronomik Quality Control" seal guarantees that your filter has been thoroughly tested and is your assurance of happy and successful observing or imaging!

Our quality in detail

Optimized transmission curves

Astronomik filters are designed to maximize contrast while preserving subtle brightness variations. The transmission curves are optimized for telescopes with f/4 to f/15 focal ratios. Custom options and our Astronomik MaxFR filters are available for even faster systems.

Substrate

Astronomik filters are coated onto high precision optically polished glass substrates that meet the highest standards for industrial laser applications. This ensures no reduction in the optical performance of your system when using an Astronomik filter and stars remain razor sharp rather than elongated or distorted.

Image of a star with a third party filter

Image of a star with an Astronomik filter

Coating and durability

The coating process is the same as that used to coat industrial cutting tools, making our filters exceptionally scratch and moisture resistant and resistant to ageing. Unlike many interference filters that degrade over time, Astronomik filters maintain their transmission properties for years thanks to their extraordinarily coating technology, which is why we offer a 10-year warranty.

Parfocality 

Thanks to extremely tight thickness tolerances, all Astronomik filters are parfocal, which means that there is no need to refocus when switching between filters.

Wedge errors

Due to the high-precision machining of the carrier substrate, the wedge errors of Astronomik filters are far below all common tolerances.

UV- and IR-Blocking

For astrophotographers, our Astronomik MFR and MaxFR filters feature built-in ultraviolett (UV) and infrared (IR) blocking up to 1200nm, preventing unwanted UV and IR light from affecting images.

Award-winning innovation

One of our most notable innovations is the Astronomik Clip-Filter system. It makes it very easy to use filters for astrophotography with system and DSLR cameras. This revolutionary design was recognized as a "Hot Product" by Sky & Telescope in 2009.