Product Description
This older version 1X field flattener is designed to improve performance with 80 mm/480 mm focal length optical systems. This flattener is designed for cameras using APS-c sensor or smaller sensors. The flattener plugs into the focuser and a DSLR camera mounts to it using a standard M42 photographic t-ring. CCD cameras will also work with this flattener but a threaded extension may be required. If you have an 8mm f-6 refractor with a 2.5" or larger focuser that has a threaded connection we recommend the larger SFFX-1 field flattener but this will not work with 2" focusers.
The Importance of proper spacing: The photographic field flattener must be placed at a precise distance from the camera’s internal ccd sensor. If the spacing is incorrect, the performance will be compromised. Our stock flatteners are made to work with DSLR cameras. The distance from the t-ring to the internal ccd sensor on a DSLR camera is about 55 mm. This distance from the thread on the front of the camera to the sensor is also known as its “backfocus.”
Non DSLR (ccd astro cameras) are not made to the same specifications. The distance from the thread on the front of the camera to the chip varies and if often much less than 55 mm.
If the distance from the camera's chip to the front thread is less than 55 mm, you must purchase threaded extension tube(s) and/or spacer rings in order to maintain a distance of 55 mm from the back of the field flattener to the cameras sensor.
This field flattener has a standard M42 X .75 t-thread attachment. Our selection of 42 mm extension tubes may be viewed here.
