Introduction
Imagine taking your time out from the busy schedule to go and observe the nebula. But wait, the view isn’t clear. All those lights are clouding the view and you only see a distorted image. You wish you had UHC filters to help you during that time.
Besides, you don’t want any UHC light. You might want to go for the best UHC filter out there.
That is why we came up with a light of the top UHC filters in the market. This list of products will give you a few options to choose from without making you feel overwhelmed. And, we believe these are the go-to options even for a professional.
Besides, we even have some great info on the UHC filter that we will reveal once you go through the benefits of the 5 products on our list. So that if you feel confused at the end, you can get some quick info to help you make a decision.
Anyway, if you have your seat belts buckled we can start the journey. We surely have a long ride ahead!
Comparison Table
| Product | Barrel Diameter | Compatible Eyepieces |
| SVBONY 1.25 inches UHC Filter | 1.25 inches | 1.25 inches |
| Solomark 2 Inch UHC Filter | 2 Inches | 1.25 inches |
| Astromania 1.25″ UHC Filter | 1.25 Inches | 1.25 inches |
| Telescope 1.25″ UHC Filter | 1.25 Inches | 1.25 inches |
| Baader Planetarium UHC-S Nebula Filter | 2 Inches | 1.25 or 2 inches |
SVBONY 1.25 inches UHC Filter
Product Overview
First and foremost, we have the SVBONY 1.25 inches UHC Filter. This is the number one filter on our list and it is up there for a number of reasons. So, if you’re curious about it then join us as we go over its benefits-
Well, this UHC filter is the most budget-friendly filter out there with functions and quality that can beat all the others. It is truly worth its price. Plus, it comes in 2 different sizes so you can choose the one that is suitable for you.
By size, we mean the barrel diameter. The one that we have on our list is 1.25 inches. Which works with all telescopes that have an eyepiece of the size of 1.25 inches.
But if you want, you can also buy the 2 inches one. They work with both 1.25 inches eyepiece and 2 inches eyepiece. So, they are more useful in nature.
Besides, this UHC filter is a narrowband filter. That means they only work with certain wavelengths of light. But, the good news is that the wavelength blocked by the filter coincides with the artificial lights that we see in the city.
Hence, the light pollution made by the city lights is reduced dramatically. Thus, you can use this filter when you’re viewing your telescope in a city or even in the suburbs. Not to mention the rural areas where light pollution is close to 0.
Moreover, this UHC filter is not only limited to telescopes. You see, they can be used by other devices as well. For instance, you can use them with cameras to take astronomical photos.
Furthermore, the UHC filter can darken the background and increase the contrast. Thus, the nebula can be viewed pretty well. And as you know the light pollution is also reduced so the lights won’t interrupt the view.
On top of this, the SVBONY filter is made of an aluminum frame. This means the strength to weight ratio is phenomenal. Thus, the filter isn’t too heavy but it does provide quite the protection for your UHC filter. Hence, they won’t break easily.
Pros
- They are budget-friendly
- Available in two sizes
- Can reduce light pollution dramatically
- It can be used in cities and suburbs
- They won’t break easily
Cons
- Can’t be used to see galaxies or clusters
Solomark 2 Inch UHC Filter
Product Overview
Second up, we have the Solomark 2 Inch UHC Filter. Now, this is another product that went head to head with our winner. But only one item can grab the first place, right? However, this one has wonders of its own.
For instance, this same brand has other filters for you to try. You can go for a moon and skyglow filter or UV cut filter too. The choice is yours truly. But today we will focus on the UHC filter. But it’s good to have options, right?
Besides, this is a broadband filter. That means the majority of the lights are blocked by this filter. In reality, this UHC filter has the capability to block about 97% of the lights that pass through the filter.
Moreover, it can reduce up to 92% of the city lights. Hence, even if you live in one of the busiest and brightest cities in the world this UHC filter will still help you in seeing the nebulae at night.
Hence, most of the light pollution is blocked. Plus, the filter is capable of darkening the light to the level where the nebulae are seen pretty vividly. On top of this, the Solomark UHC light pollution reducer creates high contrast.
That also helps create a clear image of the nebula. Thus, you get to observe all the nebulae without an issue.
Pros
- Comes with options
- Blocks majority of the wavelengths of lights
- Doesn’t allow city lights to interfere
- Creates a clear image of the nebula
Cons
- Adds a bit too much contrast to the camera images
Astromania 1.25″ UHC Filter
Product Overview
In third place, we have the Astromania 1.25″ UHC Filter. Yep, the second runner-up is here. And if you give this one a chance, who knows, it might blow your mind.
Now, one of the top reasons why we like it so much is because it is the most lightweight filter out on our list. You see, it only weighs 0.3 ounces. That is significantly low when compared to the others.
Hence, it doesn’t really add a lot of weight to the cameras or telescope. Now, we know that the weight of the UHC filter doesn’t make much of a difference. But in our opinion, a sleek design that works to reduce weight deserves some credit.
Besides, this UHC filter can work in both city light-filled sky or even the dark skies. So, they are suitable for multiple occasions and locations. Meaning that you can use it in both cities and rural areas.
Furthermore, this UHC can block both mercury and sodium vapor lamps. Thus, you can carry around your source of light without having to worry whether it will interfere with the work or not.
Now, this filter’s barrel diameter is only 1.25 inches. Thus, it works on a telescope that has an eyepiece of 1.25 inches. But it works on all telescopes with that sized eyepiece.
And because of the size, it works on small telescopes. But the view of the nebulae is extraordinary through this filter. You can observe all types of nebulae using this particular UHC filter.
Pros
- Don’t add too much weight
- It can block lamp lights
- Shows detailed view
- It works to reduce artificial light
Cons
- Adds a blue touch to everything
Telescope 1.25″ UHC Filter
Product Overview
Moving on, we have the Telescope 1.25″ UHC Filter. This is the semi-last product on our list. And if you’re still here chances are that you haven’t found your Mr. Perfect. So, let’s see if this one suits you or not-
The most fascinating thing about this UHC filter is its metal frame. You see, it has a metal frame that surrounds the optical glass. You see, the strength of this metal frame and its durability is off the charts.
Thus, you can rest assured that this UHC filter will last you a long time. Moreover, this UHC filter is not limited to just a telescope. You see, you can use it on any other accessory that you want.
Moreover, this filter is capable of creating a high level of contrast in any sort of environment. So, no matter where you are on this planet this UHC filter is found to work. But we aren’t too sure about out-of-this-world performance.
As for the light pollution reduction, this one does work great. It can reduce pollution to a certain degree. So, you will get quite a view while using this UHC filter.
Pros
- It is quite durable in nature
- Can be used on multiple devices
- Creates a high level of contrast
- Reduces light pollution by a certain degree
Cons
- Only works on a small telescope
Baader Planetarium UHC-S Filter
Product Overview
Last but not least, we have the Baader Planetarium UHC-S Filter L-Booster. Yep, we have reached the end of the list. And, there is only one product that is on our list. So, let’s see what this one has in store for us-
Well, this 2 inches UHC filter works on the telescope with an eyepiece the size of 2 inches or 1.25 inches. Thus, your option for its usage is more. Moreover, this is the most premium product on our list. And we will tell you why.
Now, this UHC filter works on smaller telescopes. But that’s not all. It is designed in such a way that it allows sufficient light to pass through the filter. Hence, even on the small telescope, you get an awesome view of the nebulae.
You see, this one has optical glass for nebula observation. And each of the UHC filters is polished thoroughly. Thus, you get a clear view of the nebula.
Moreover, it can be used for both visual and photographic purposes. Thus, you get to enjoy it for both purposes.
Pros
- Can be used for both visual and photographic purposes
- Help get a clear view of nebulae
- Works on both big and small telescopes
- Don’t get scratched easily
Cons
- Doesn’t create that much of a contrast
What is a UHC filter Good for?
The Ultra-High Contrast filter also known as the UHC filter is mainly used for viewing different nebulae more clearly. The UHC filter basically allows different light emissions to pass through the telescope or camera.
Moreover, it stops many lights from refracting. So, the light pollution is reduced and you get a superb view of nebulae like Horsehead nebula and Cat’s Eye nebula.
Now, what range works on the UHC filter?
You see, the range 484 to 506 nm works on the UHC filter. Thus, spectral lines like the O-III and H-beta can pass through the UHC filter.
Because of that, light pollution is heavily reduced. Thus, most of the emissions and planetary nebulae are brought under the dark sky. Meaning it darkens the view a bit. Hence, you get a detailed view of the nebula.
UHC Filters Type: Narrowband VS Broadband
Typically there are two types of light filters. One is the broadband filter and the other is called the narrowband filter.
Now, the broadband filters are designed to block the majority of light pollution. But the narrowband filters can only capture specific wavelengths.
And sometimes people get confused because a few manufacturers state that UHC filters are narrowband and others are broadband. Well, UHC is meant to be broadband filters.
But some manufacturers advertise their UHC filter as a narrowband. Hence, it is important to know a bit about the product before actually buying it. See what the filter is designed for and then make a decision.
Do UHC Filters Work For All Telescopes?
Yes, UHC filters do work for all telescopes. But they work better on the smaller ones. This is because with them they can absorb more light pollution and give you a much better view.
However, while choosing a UHC filter for your telescope you should look at the barrel diameter. They range from 1.25 inches to 2 inches.
Now, while choosing a UHC filter you must be aware of the eyepiece of your telescope. The eyepiece size is what determines the size of the UHC filter that will be suitable for you.
Depending on the type that will be suitable for your telescope you need to make a choice. But if you’re still confused then go for the 2 inches sized UHC filter. They work on telescopes with both 2 inches and 1.25 inches eyepieces.
Can UHC Filter Be Used For Astrophotography?
One of the most common uses for UHC filters is astrophotography. Not only that, but they are also great for astrophotography. This is because the UHC filter results in a high-level contrast after you take the photograph.
Hence, it can reduce a lot of light pollution. Even when compared to other filters the function of the UHC filter is quite phenomenal. Hence, you can use it in places where the light pollution is terribly high. For instance, it works great in cities.
Are UHC Filters Worth It?
Well, the usefulness of UHC filters boils down to our own judgment. Some people think that the reduction in light pollution made by their UHC filter is not worth spending so much money over.
While others believe that UHC filters are worth it because they reduce quite a lot of light pollution. Plus, they produce a contrast that makes the sky clear to observe the nebulae pretty clearly.
Now, we believe that the filters are worth buying. But, you have to be very careful while making a choice. This is because cheap filters can be worthless and will be a complete waste of time and energy.
So, to be safe you can choose any filter from our list. They won’t disappoint you.
FAQs
Can you look at the Moon without a filter?
You can observe the moon without a filter but it wouldn’t be completely safe. That is because the moon is quite bright. So, to reduce the brightness you can take the help of filters.
Are telescope filters necessary?
Telescope filters are quite helpful but they aren’t completely mandatory. With that being said, the view won’t be crystal clear if you use a telescope filter.
Do I need a filter for night photography?
A filter for night photography is mandatory because the filters allow you to capture the best photographs of the nebulae and outer planets. They reduce light pollution and create high contrast to ensure a great image.
Are UHC filters expensive?
Yes, UHC filters can be a bit expensive. But they also have high performance. Thus, in our opinion, the performance actually makes them worth it in the end.
To Sum Up
That’s it. This was all we had on the best UHC filter. Now, the ultimate decision is in your hands. Do make sure that you pick the best of the best UHC filters.
Otherwise, you won’t be able to get a good view of the nebulae. Hence, it will be a waste of money. Thus, we recommend you take your time and then make a decision. Anyways, that is all from us. We hope to see you at another blog soon!
