The Lunt LS130MT with B1800 blocking filter is a large-aperture, pressure-tuned hydrogen-alpha solar telescope built for those who want a wide, flat field of view and the ability to observe or image with larger sensors or higher magnifications. At 130mm of aperture and 910mm focal length, this modular refractor gives exceptional solar resolution and contrast—while still offering the flexibility to convert into a nighttime ED triplet refractor when the Sun goes down.
This version includes the 2" B1800 blocking filter, providing an 18mm clear aperture at the focal plane—ideal for visual users seeking a wide, unvignetted field, as well as solar imagers using APS-C or smaller sensors.
Why Choose the B1800 Blocking Filter?
Blocking filters are sized by their clear aperture in millimeters. The B1800 features an 18mm opening, which allows more light through the system without cutting into the solar disk or edge detail—especially useful with long focal length telescopes or wide-field eyepieces. For the LS130MT’s 910mm focal length, the B1800 offers improved off-axis illumination compared to the B1200, and is the recommended choice for high-magnification observing or entry-level imaging. It’s the sweet spot between affordability and advanced performance.
Large-Aperture Optical Quality
The 130mm f/7 FPL-53 ED triplet objective offers outstanding color correction and resolution. More aperture means better contrast on solar granulation, finer detail in filaments and sunspots, and more magnification potential under steady skies. For visual or photographic use, the LS130MT's optics are matched to meet the demands of serious solar observers and nighttime stargazers alike.
Observing Tip:
Use the B1800 with wide-field eyepieces for unvignetted, fully illuminated views. It's also ideal for imaging with most APS-C sized sensors. If you’re using binoviewers or plan to do advanced solar photography, the wider field provided by the B1800 makes a noticeable difference in edge brightness and detail.
Pressure Tuning: Uniform Control Across the Field
The LS130MT uses Lunt’s internal pressure tuning system to adjust the etalon’s bandpass. This allows you to selectively highlight different features on the Sun—like prominences, flares, filaments, or active regions—without creating uneven brightness across the view. Unlike tilt-tuned designs, pressure tuning ensures an evenly illuminated image at all settings.
Important Safety Warning:
Never look at the Sun through this telescope—or any telescope—without the hydrogen-alpha etalon and blocking filter properly installed. Permanent eye damage or blindness will result. The telescope must be used exactly as designed for safe solar observing.
Day and Night Performance in One Telescope
Thanks to its modular design, the LS130MT easily converts into a high-performance nighttime refractor. Once the solar module and blocking filter are removed, you can install the included 2" rack and pinion focuser and use the telescope for lunar, planetary, and deep-sky observing. The f/7 triplet optics are sharp and color-pure, ideal for visual astronomy or astrophotography.
Mechanical Features
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130mm FPL-53 ED triplet optics
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910mm focal length (f/7)
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Internal pressure-tuned hydrogen-alpha etalon
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B1800 blocking filter (18mm aperture) in 2" diagonal
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Standard 2" rack and pinion focuser for nighttime use
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Vixen-style dovetail with hinged rings and solar finder handle
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Hard foam-lined carry case for safe transport
What’s Included:
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Lunt 130mm FPL-53 ED triplet OTA
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Internal pressure-tuned etalon
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B1800 blocking filter in 2" diagonal
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Modular 2" rack and pinion focuser for nighttime use
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Ring set with Vixen dovetail and solar finder handle
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Foam-lined hard case
