Optec :: SSP Photometers

The SSP-3 solid-state photometer is an entry level instrument for the accurate measurement of stellar magnitude. Durable and well constructed, the SSP-3 and SSP-3A automated model have been used by amateurs, students, and professional astronomers worldwide since 1983. With a spectral response from the UV to the near-infrared, the SSP-3 can be used for UBVRI photometry using Optec's Johnson standard filters. The SSP-3 has been upgraded with PIC microcontroller technology and direct computer serial interface and is now referred to as generation 2.

The SSP-4 Infrared photometer uses an InGaAs PIN photodiode detector and is the first off-the-shelf infrared photometer available to amateur and professional astronomers. This instrument allows accurate measurements of very cool stars in the J and H standard photometric bands. A dual temperature control Peltier cooler keeps the detecor at a preset temperature down to -40 degrees C. This instrument was developed in part with the help of the AAVSO.

The SSP-5 photomultiplier-based single channel photometer provides greater sensitivity than the SSP-3 and faster response time for occultation work. The SSP-5 has nearly 5 magnitudes greater sensitivity compared to the SSP-3. Using an optional extended red-sensitive PMT and Optec filters, the SSP-5 can provide accurate photometric measurements in the Johnson U, B, V and R bands. Optec also stocks filters for the Strmgren u v b y bands and H-beta band. Like the SSP-3, the SSP-5 has been extensively upgraded with PIC microcontroller technology and a direct computer serial interface. The SSP-5 can also be ordered with the optional motorized 6-filter slider for robotic operation. This model is refered to as SSP-5A.

For owners of the Generation 1 SSP-3 and SSP-5 photometers, Optec can upgrade your instrument to Generation 2. This requires the photometer to be sent to Optec where we replace the control box and install a new main circuit board. A new power supply is also provided since the power connector is different from the old model. The photometer is aligned and made to meet current operating standards. The cost to upgrade a SSP-3 or SSP-3A is $475.00. For a SSP-5 or SSP-5A, the cost is $575.00. Call Optec for more details.