The first batch is sold out. New SHGs orders will be part of the second batch, with an estimated shipping date in late February 2025. Accessories and optical kits is not affected.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about MLAstro SHG and our shipping policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SHG, and what are the advantages of the MLAstro SHG compared to other solar imaging devices?
Checkout our detailed post on the MLAstro's SHG and it's pros and cons here
Do I need an ERF with the MLAstro SHG? If so, what kind of ERF is recommended?
You can use the MLAstro SHG with telescopes up to 102mm in diameter without an ERF without risking damage to the optics. However, if you have the option to use an ERF, we recommend a subaperture narrowband filter placed before the slit or a Herschel wedge. We do not recommend using ND filters in any form, as they will degrade image quality regardless of the brand or product. Follow the link to read more about our Slit and the ERF
What advantages does the MLAstro SHG offer compared to other 3D-printed SHGs?
The MLAstro SHG is crafted from aviation grade aluminum, ensuring high rigidity, durability under sunlight, and precise optical alignment, which translates to superior image quality. Additionally, our advanced optical kit and durable slit enable imaging on scopes up to 730mm in focal length and without the need for a costly or cumbersome ERF. Click to read more details on the technical breakthrough of our mechanical and optical design or slit.
I’m having trouble setting up/calibrating the device. Can you help?
Absolutely! Please email me at trong.minh@mlastro.com, and I’ll guide you through the setup process. I can also arrange a video call to assist you directly.
When will my order ship?
The current estimated ship date is mid-late OCT.
How long does it take for my order to get to me?
To the US: 7-10 working days from the ship date (excluding time held in customs).
To other parts of the world: 10-20 working days from the ship date (excluding time held in customs).
Can I clean my grating?
No, the grating is extremely fragile, any effort to clean the grating will render it useless. Read more about how to handle the grating here.
Can I clean my slit?
Yes and no. You can easily clean the upper side of the slit with a cotton swab or lens tissue. However, cleaning the underside requires following a specific guide. Improper cleaning of the underside will void your warranty. Read more about the slit here.
Which camera do you recommend for MLAstro SHG?
We recommend the new ToupTek 678M, available at a discounted price, as it offers increased H-alpha sensitivity, smaller pixel size, and lower noise compared to the IMX178M. However, if you already have camera with IMX178, IMX174, or IMX183, they all work just fine. As long as you have a decent-sized monochrome sensor, it will work. We recommend sensors with a long edge longer than 7mm for optimal performance.
Do I need helical focuser to complete the build?
For the SHG, a helical focuser is not necessary. However, if you're using the guide kit for nighttime spectroscopy, you'll need a helical focuser to connect your guide camera to the kit.
What accessories do I need to complete the SHG and put it on a telescope?
The SHG aluminum kit includes nearly everything you need to get started, with two exceptions:
1.25" to M42 Adapter: This is required to connect your camera to the SHG output, which uses a T2 (M42x0.75) male thread.
1.25" Nosepiece: This is needed to connect the SHG body to the telescope.
If you already have these adapters in your collection, you're all set. Otherwise, they will need to be purchased separately for complete assembly.
What scope do you recommend for using with your SHG
Check out our Scope guide here.
What software do you recommend for reconstructing the scanning video into still images?
There are several reconstructing software programs that allow you to join the scanning video into a Sun's still image, but I recommend JSolex by Cédric Champeau. It's constantly updated and has many great little tools built in (optimal exposure calculator/image math, batch tool, etc.). It also supports all the popular OSes including Mac, Win and Linux.
I am having the spectral line titled/image blurred/the Sun outside of the FOV...
Checkout Jérôme Bastardie's wonderful animations here that detailed the common problems that SHG users encounter and how to deal with them.