H-alpha modification
Reveal The Hidden Light!
This modification is performed to allow H-alpha light to pass to the sensor and have your camera start shooting extraordinary photographs of distant galaxies and nebulae like it never has before!
With this conversion, Canon and Nikon cameras follow slightly different modification procedures.
Most Canon cameras, by default, come equipped with two internal filters that intercept light nonvisible to the human eye. Contrarily, Nikon cameras are usually factory-assembled with one ‘sandwich’ filter for the same purpose.
Although having these filters is useful and beneficial for everyday photography, it also prohibits taking pictures in other light ranges like ultraviolet, H-alpha, and infrared.
Fortunately for those wishing to shoot the aforementioned types of images, it is still possible to convert certain cameras to overcome the challenge posed by the pre-installed filters.
Applying our expert knowledge and experience, we at Night Sky Camera have developed our own unique system to modify cameras to a specific configuration. Our method is effective, reasonably priced, and, most importantly, reliable.
To convert a Canon camera, we begin by carefully disassembling the camera body to reveal major internal components and make them accessible for extraction.
Next, the low pass filter 2 (LPF2), a component which is responsible for blocking out H-alpha light waves, is removed. To compensate for the removal of the LPF2, it is then necessary to precisely calibrate the camera sensor by adjusting its position so that the internal autofocus system may work properly.
In this arrangement, the low pass filter 1 or LPF1 is retained and simultaneously serves as an ultraviolet and infrared cut filter as well as the built-in dust removal device.
Finally, the camera body is reassembled and extensively tested to guarantee the product upholds our company’s quality standard and to ensure the new configuration will continue functioning at its best. At this point, new light waves can effortlessly make their way to the sensor and your camera will be ready for whatever new adventures you have planned for it.
Converting Nikon cameras in this way is a bit more challenging. Since the single stock ‘sandwich’ filter cuts out the full non-visible spectrum of light, removing it also allows unwanted types of light to pass through to the sensor.
Despite this, a Nikon H-alpha conversion can still be achieved!
In collaboration with a trusted optical lab, we at Night Sky Camera have recently developed special UV/IR cut filters specifically designed for Nikon cameras.
Using this high-quality polished glass filter, we are able to replace the Nikon stock filter and successfully convert it into an H-alpha camera. That is, of course, after adjusting the camera similarly to the way we would with a Canon: By reassembling the body, fine-tuning the sensor, and extensively testing the new configuration.
Additionally, the new filters feature the latest anti-reflective (AR) coatings and have been extensively tested using both reflective and refractive telescopes, demonstrating amazing performance according to all of our standards.