Astronomy Filters
Defining Boundaries in Light Control
Andover Astronomy Filters
Revealing the secrets of the cosmos with unmatched precision
Filters for Discovery: Astronomy Optics
From Ground-Based Observatories to Deep Space
For over four decades, Andover Corporation has provided the astronomical community with precision optical filters that enable breakthrough observations. From standard photometric systems to custom solutions for space-based instruments, our filters combine exceptional image quality with environmental stability to deliver reliable performance in the most demanding conditions.
Contact Our Team
Ready to discuss your optical needs? Whether you're looking for a quote or have technical questions, our expert team is here to help guide you to the perfect solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Andover Corporation offers a comprehensive selection of astronomy filters, including narrowband filters (such as H-alpha, SII, and OIII), UBVRI photometric sets, Sloan (SDSS) filters, infrared bandpass filters, dichroic beamsplitters, Lyot-type filters, and space-qualified optics designed for CubeSat and satellite missions.
Narrowband filters transmit very specific wavelengths, such as H-alpha (656.3 nm), OIII (500.7 nm), and SII (672.4 nm), while rejecting others. They are commonly used in astrophotography to isolate emission lines from nebulae and other celestial objects, enhancing contrast and minimizing light pollution.
UBVRI filters represent traditional broadband photometric bands, covering ultraviolet (U), blue (B), visual (V), red (R), and infrared (I) regions. Sloan filters (u', g', r', i', z') are a modern standard developed for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and are optimized for improved photometric precision and color separation.
Yes. Andover manufactures space-qualified filters that are thermally stable, cryo-compatible, and compliant with mission-specific requirements. These filters are designed and tested for use in satellites, CubeSats, and space telescopes and benefit from our AS9100-certified processes and spaceflight heritage.
Infrared astronomy filters—such as H, J, and K bands—are used for observing cooler celestial objects, such as dust clouds, exoplanets, or distant galaxies. Andover’s IR filters offer high transmission, excellent blocking outside the passband, and are available in custom configurations for observatories and research-grade instruments.
Absolutely. Andover Corporation specializes in custom optical filter solutions. We can design and manufacture filters tailored to your center wavelength, bandwidth, substrate type, and environmental or spaceflight requirements.
From Prototype to Production
Custom Fabrication and High-Volume Manufacturing
Collaborate with Andover Corporation on custom optical products, prototype development, and specialized optical solutions supported by vertically integrated manufacturing.
With in-house fabrication, coating, assembly, and metrology capabilities, Andover can support everything from rapid prototypes to high-volume production programs with responsive lead times and consistent quality.
Quality isn't just a metric
- it's our foundation.
Andover Insights & Innovations
Discovering new possibilities in optical filtering
Light Reveals the World. We Refine the View.
Contact Our Team
Ready to discuss your optical needs? Whether you're looking for a quote or have technical questions, our expert team is here to help guide you to the perfect solution.