Bahtinov mask for Skywatcher Explorer 130PDS

The Bahtinov mask ((also Bakhtinov mask, after its inventor Pavel Ivanovich Bakhtinov) is one of the most useful tools for astrophotography. It can be used to focus very easily.

How does the Bahtinov mask work?

the mapping of the Bahtinov mask is independent of atmospheric conditions. Often the Airy disk cannot be seen clearly enough to achieve optimal focus.
the spikes generated by the Bahtinov mask are easier for the human eye to interpret than the smallest diameter of a diffraction disk. Thus, the brain can process this information better and allow a more objective assessment of the collimation.
When the ideal focus position is reached, the middle beam comes to lie in the middle between the other two beams.




Hints:

The Bahtinov masks are calculated individually for each telescope to ensure optimum performance.

The Bahtinov masks were calculated, designed and printed by us. We chose white so that you can easily find them in the dark. They are intentionally a little looser so as not to damage the delicate surfaces in the dew shield.