Hartmann Masks - Frequently Asked Questions

• Q1.What is a Hartmann Mask?
  • 
    In astrophotography in which a camera is attached to a telescope, there is often insufficient lightling through the camera's view for an observer to know if an image is properly focussed. An easy solution to this is the Hartmann or Scheiner mask which is effectively an opaque covering with holes that are symmetrically arranged. When placed over the main aperture of the telescope (or camera in other applications) the mask will cause multiple images to appear, unless the image is in focus. More details can be found here.

• Q2. I have your template, now what?
  • 
    There are several online resources on how to make such a mask. Here are a few to start you off:
    
    1. A. Tim Trott shows how to make a mask out of cardboard.
    2. B. Same thing here on Michael Weasner's site.
    3. C. Ashley Roeckelein creates a mask made out of plastic from hardware store!
    4. D. Pete Albrecht shows how to make them from thermoplastic techniques.
    5. E. Davide Pistritto shows how to make one out of a Nutella lid!

• Q3. You provide the template to make a mask. Do you also make the masks themselves?
  • 
    At this point no. However, if there is sufficient interest for this, Billyard Ink would consider offering this service.

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