The M42 thread, also known as the T-thread, is a standard thread size widely used in astrophotography and camera lens connections. It is named after its metric size, which is M42x0.75. The “M” stands for metric, indicating the thread is measured in millimeters, while “42” represents the major diameter of the thread in millimeters.
The M42 thread has a pitch of 0.75mm, which means there is a 0.75mm distance between adjacent threads. It is a fine thread, allowing for secure and precise connections. This thread size is commonly found on camera adapters, extension tubes, and focal reducers used in astrophotography.
In the context of telescopes, the M42 thread is often used as an intermediate connection between the T-ring and other adapters or accessories. By attaching a T-ring to a camera body, you can then connect the camera to a telescope using a T-adapter or a specific M42 threaded accessory.
The M42 thread has become a standard in the astrophotography community due to its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of cameras and accessories. It enables photographers to connect cameras and telescopes seamlessly, allowing for the capture of celestial objects with greater precision and control.
In this age of larger camera sensors, there are larger diameter threads that allow for larger sensors and less vignetting (light falloff at the edges). The M48 thread, also known as the 2″ filter thread, is a standard thread size used in astrophotography and astronomy for attaching filters and other accessories to telescopes. It is named after its metric size, which is M48x0.75. The “M” indicates the thread is measured in millimeters, while “48” represents the major diameter of the thread in millimeters.
The M48 thread has a pitch of 0.75mm, similar to the M42 thread. However, the M48 thread is larger in diameter, making it compatible with larger optical systems. It is commonly found on filter wheels, camera adapters, and other accessories designed for use with 2-inch telescope setups.
The M48 thread is primarily used for attaching 2-inch filters to telescopes. These filters, such as light pollution filters or narrowband filters, can enhance or modify the observed light to improve image quality or isolate specific wavelengths. The M48 thread allows secure attachment of these filters to filter wheels or directly to accessories that support the M48 thread.
In addition to filters, the M48 thread can also be found on other accessories like focal reducers, field flatteners, or coma correctors. These optical components are designed to optimize the imaging performance of telescopes and cameras, and the M48 thread ensures a reliable connection between these accessories and the telescope’s focuser or imaging train.
The M48 thread has gained popularity due to its larger size, which reduces vignetting and provides better coverage for larger sensors commonly used in modern astrophotography. It offers greater compatibility and flexibility in configuring the imaging setup, particularly for photographers using telescopes with 2-inch focusers and accessories. If your camera sensor is full-frame size or larger, make sure you use at least a 48mm diameter connector.
There are thread sizes larger than M48. While the M48 thread is commonly used for 2-inch filters and accessories in astronomy, larger telescopes and optical systems may require even bigger threads for attaching certain components.
One example of a larger thread size is the M68x1 thread, often referred to as the 2.7″ thread. The M68 thread has a major diameter of 68mm and a pitch of 1mm. It is commonly used in high-end astrophotography setups and larger telescopes to connect various accessories, such as field flatteners, reducers, or adapters.
Additionally, there are even larger thread sizes used in specialized and professional-grade observatories or custom setups. These larger thread sizes can vary depending on the specific requirements of the equipment and may not follow a standardized naming convention.
It’s important to note that while larger thread sizes provide compatibility with larger optical systems, they are not as widely used as the more common M42 and M48 threads found in many telescopes and astrophotography setups. The choice of thread size depends on the specific equipment being used and the desired compatibility with other accessories or components. Make sure you have the proper sized adapters when putting together a photography setup!