In recent years, dSLR cameras have been used extensively in astrophotography and the 300D, 350D, 10D and 20D cameras from Canon have been shown to give impressive results. The only real draw back has been that the fitted filter cuts a large amount of the red light at particular frequencies, giving a very poor response in the crucial Hydrogen Alpha band of emission nebulae.

Astronomiser offer a service to replace the standard IR blocking and antialiasing filter fitted to your Canon Camera with a Baader filter which still blocks out all of the IR and UV bands but with a much steeper cut-off which allows over 90% transmission across the whole of the visible range.

Also, if you simply wish to have the filter removed, we can do that - this will mean however that your camera's autofocus function will no longer operate.

NOTE: Any change in the amount of glass between the sensor and an AF camera lens WILL effect the Auto-focus, whether this is by removing the existing filter or adding an EOS clip filter.

Astronomiser has years of experience in modifying dSLR cameras with hundreds of cameras modified successfully. We also supply control cables and other products for use with your dSLR. With us, your camera is in safe hands.

Do not forget - our price includes return postage so all you pay is the price quoted below to benefit from our experience and knowledge in both astro-imaging and modifying all types of dSLR cameras.

The first two sections below apply to the filter change only.

Baader #245 9211 filter transmission curve

Restoring Normal Use, post mod

Software

Cost

Baader #245 9211 filter transmission Curve...

Restoring Normal Use, post mod...

Pre mod...

Post mod...

After the filter change, if you wish to use the camera normally, you may wish to use an X-Nite CC1 type filter available from http://www.maxmax.com/aXNiteFilters.htm - other filters are available and these may be available from EU based retaillers soon.

It is possible to use a simple levels adjustment in your photo processing software, i.e., PhotoShop.

Another alternative is to use a 'Custom White Balance. To do this you should follow these steps:

• In auto, take a shot of a piece of white paper from around 2 or 3 feet away.
• Put the camera in manual mode.
• Open the menu and in settings choose Custom WB.
• Select the image you have just shot.
• In the settings menu, set the white balance to custom.
• After this point, any shots taken in Manual mode (non-RAW) will use the values obtained from this image to adjust white balance.

NOTE: When shooting in manual mode most settings are automatic unless changed - remember to activate the flash when appropriate and set the exposure time.

Software...

To use your canon camera for Astrophotography you can either just attach it to the back of a scope and use it in manual mode (with a remote) or use software such as DSLR Focus, MaxDSLR (from Diffraction Limited, the makers of MaxIm DL), ImagesPlus and DSLR Control with the use a serial control cable - see Canon Camera Control.

This type of software allows you to set exposures for a whole imaging session, i.e., set number of exposures, timings, ISO, image type etc.

Cost...

The cost of this service includes return Special Delivery postage. The normal turn-around time will be 7 days within the UK unless otherwise stated at time of ordering. This service can now be booked online by simply clicking one of the below buttons, making a secure credit card payment through the Paypal web cart system (no PayPal account required) and then send your camera body only (no lens, battery or CF Card is required) to:

Please ensure that the camera is well packed with plenty of padding (i.e., bubble wrap) and insure the camera for it's full replacement value. In the UK, I recommend Special delivery, internationally, an expedited signed for, insured postal service is essential to guarantee your camera's safety.

To book the service without using the Paypal web cart service, you can write to me - contact_at_astronomiser_dot_co_dot_uk (replace anti-spam _at_ with @ and _dot_ with a full stop), use the Contact Page or call me on 07709490738. Using these methods, I can accept payment by cheque/ PO or PayPal.

Guarantees.

The work will be guaranteed for 3 months after time of delivery against all defects of workmanship - this guarantee is separate from any guarantees you may already have on the camera, and the work carried out will void your canon guarantee.

If your camera is less than one year old then astronomiser's guarantee is extended to cover all parts and labour for any fault that develops in the camera after modding for three months.

Any damage which occurs during the filter replacement procedure will be communicated to the customer immediately. Although it may slightly add to the expected delivery time, the camera will be returned in the same condition as supplied or better with the filter change carried out.