Product images of the upcoming EOS Ra have appeared. It’s very likely we’ll see this camera very shortly.
The EOS-Ra is an EOS R with a sensor modification that allows for h-Alpha wavelengths to pass through unimpeded by the IR cut filter that sits in front of the sensor. Normally a stock IR Cut filter that digital cameras employ has around a 2-3 stop loss at the h-Alpha wavelength of 656.28nm.
Why is this good for astrophotography? Atypically emission nebulae emit this wavelength, and as well, the Sun’s atmosphere (take proper precautions if you try this!). Letting more of this light to reach the sensor allows for better contrast and detail when it comes to nebulae and deep sky astrophotography.
Since the EOS Ra is modified to pass more light of the 656nm wavelength, white balance and colors will be a bit off for normal photography. You can, however, use a hot mirror filter that screws on the front of your lens to correct the filtering for normal color photography...
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