Astronomy Filters

Defining Boundaries in Light Control

Filters For Astronomy KronCousins UBV RI Filters

Andover Astronomy Filters

Revealing the secrets of the cosmos with unmatched precision

Astronomy filters are specialized optical components designed to enhance the observation and imaging of celestial objects by isolating specific wavelengths of astronomical interest while rejecting unwanted light. These precision-engineered filters enable researchers and astronomers to study specific features of stars, nebulae, galaxies and other astronomical phenomena with exceptional clarity.

Each astronomy filter is characterized by several critical parameters:

  • Spectral Range: The specific wavelength band optimized for different astronomical targets
  • Image Quality: Ultra-precise polishing and coating for minimal wavefront distortion
  • Environmental Stability: Designed to maintain performance in varying temperatures and conditions
  • System Compatibility: Engineered to work with both visual and electronic imaging systems

Andover Corporation manufactures a comprehensive range of astronomy filters, from standard photometric systems like UBVRI (both Johnson/Bessell and Kron/Cousins sets) to specialized filters for solar observation and infrared astronomy. Using state-of-the-art thin film technology and premium optical materials, we deliver filters that meet the exacting demands of modern astronomical research, whether for ground-based observatories or space-borne instruments.

Astronomy Filter Technologies

Astronomy filters require exceptional precision and optical quality to enable ground-breaking observations. Understanding the available technologies helps ensure optimal performance for your specific astronomical applications:

Standard UBVRI Systems

We offer both Johnson/Bessell and Kron/Cousins photometric systems, each optimized for different detector types. Johnson/Bessell filters are optimized for photomultiplier tubes, while Kron/Cousins variants are designed for superior performance with Silicon CCDs. All filters are precision polished with transmitted wavefront of λ/4 per inch and parallelism to 30 arc seconds or better.

Specialized Astronomical Filters

  • Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) filters with non-overlapping bands and steep transitions
  • Solar observation filters including H-alpha and CaK lines
  • Infrared astronomy filters covering J, H, K, L, M, and N bands
  • Custom solutions for space-based telescopes and observatories
By partnering with Andover Corporation, you join leading observatories worldwide who rely on our filters for groundbreaking astronomical research. From ground-based telescopes to space-borne instruments, our space-qualified filters continue to enable critical scientific discoveries.

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.

From Prototype to Production

Custom Fabrication and High-Volume Manufacturing

Our vertically integrated facility handles both specialized custom projects and large-scale production runs with consistent quality and short lead times.

Quality isn't just a metric

- it's our foundation.

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Discovering new possibilities in optical filtering

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