Widefield imaging.

[oldfruit]

Hi guys and gals. Just after a little advice please. When taking wide field astro images with a dslr and standard lens, is it better to leave the uv filter on the end of the lens or should I remove it? Thanks.

[Beardy Bob]

I would take it off. I've never noticed any difference with or without so figured that the least glass to block/refract the incoming light the better! But just take the same shot with and without the filter and compare them to check. It would be interesting to hear other people's opinion.

[Gina]

I think the filters in the camera block UV.

[Steve Ward]

Given that a standard lens ( I'm guessing you mean the kit lens that came with the camera ) struggles with pinpoint stars anyway , I think the addition of a piece of not very optically flat glass like a UV filter will do nothing but cause you problems.

I use a similar filter for everyday use to protect the front element from dirt and dust but always remove it at night.