A crisp and precise focus is an imperative step to any astrophotography system. The Bahtinov mask, developed by an amateur astronomer named Pavel Bahtinov in 2005 has quickly become the most cost effective tool to obtain an easy, precision focus for your telescope.
How does a Bahtinov mask work? Each focus mask contains three separate grids with a series of bars and slots that are designed to provide diffraction spikes, which are caused by the light diffraction around the mask. When pointing the telescope at a bright star, you can use the star’s diffraction pattern and the mask’s diffraction spikes to get perfect focus around the star. The mask pattern is dependent on the formula Pavel Bahtinov created, called the Bahtinov factor, and the focal length of the telescope. Bahtinov masks are incredibly intuitive focusing aids that are must-haves for any astrophotographer. If you would like to learn more about how to use your Bahtinov mask, we have prepared a Astrophotography Guide article on achieving perfect focus with a Bahtinov mask.
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Here at High Point Scientific, we offer focus masks from Apertura, Astrozap, and William Optics. The Apertura Bright focus masks are designed using a large sample of data from a wide range of telescopes, so they are optimized for their compatible telescope size. This sets them apart from other Bahtinov masks on the market that use the same pattern, sized down or up, to fit the telescope outside diameter. For more information on how Apertura created the Bright Focus Masks, check out the comprehensive “Building a Better Focus Mask" article.
If you have a larger aperture telescope, such as a 14” or 16” telescope, the Astrozap full aperture aluminum Bahtinov masks are an excellent option. Astrozap values an astrophotographer’s time and understands the need for optimal performance and sharp focus. Their Bahtinov masks simplify the process. These Bahtinov masks are made in the United State from solid sheet aluminum to maximize durability and quality.
William Optics takes their Bahtinov masks one step further by including their innovative Bahtinov mask design with the purchase of their WYO telescopes! This means you have the ability to get super sharp focus out of the box! Unique to William Optics, their focus masks are made from acrylic instead of metal and provide 92% light transmission, making focusing easier.
Bahtinov mask designs are versatile, and we aim to help you find the right size, pattern, and material of focus mask to best fit your focusing needs!