Astronomik H-beta visual 2" — for faint hydrogen nebulae The Astronomik H-beta filter is designed for visual observation with larger telescopes. It passes the 486 nm H-beta line almost unobstructed while blocking the rest of the spectrum, so low-contrast hydrogen regions that are nearly invisible without a filter can stand out against the sky.
Manufacturer model: Astronomik H-beta visual 2" (M48), 10214200 · Specifications checked against manufacturer data on 2026-11-03
The Astronomik H-beta filter is designed for visual observation with larger telescopes. It passes the 486 nm H-beta line almost unobstructed while blocking the rest of the spectrum, so low-contrast hydrogen regions that are nearly invisible without a filter can stand out against the sky.
With telescopes of 10 to 12 inches (250–300 mm) aperture, the H-beta filter makes objects such as the Horsehead Nebula observable. It works best on telescopes of 8 inches (200 mm) or larger, and Astronomik recommends focal ratios between f/4.5 and f/6. Stars stay as sharp as without a filter.
Astronomik rates the H-beta filter as very good under dark skies, but useful for only a few objects. It is unsuitable for urban skies; for general nebula observing there, the UHC or OIII filters are the better choice.
| Line | H-beta, 486 nm |
|---|---|
| Typical transmission at 486 nm | 97% |
| Transmission range | 480–492 nm |
| Bandwidth (FWHM) | 12 nm |
| Recommended focal ratio | f/4.5 to f/6 |
| Recommended aperture | 8 inches (200 mm) or larger |
| Manufacturer code | 10214200 |
|---|---|
| Format | 2-inch cell, M48 × 0.75 thread |
| Glass thickness | 1 mm |
| Coating | Astronomik MFR |
| Made in | Germany |
Astronomik H-beta visual 2" product page
Visual H-beta 2-inch (10214200). Product page gives f/4.5–f/6; Astronomik category page says f/4–f/6; product page value used. Unsuitable for urban skies.
| Transmission range (nm) | 480–492 |
|---|---|
| Recommended aperture | 8 in (200 mm) or larger |