Solar filter

[phoenix]

What type of solar filter would you recommend? :duh:
I'm thinking about purchasing a JMB solar filter that sits on the front of your telescope, its a 70mm refractor.
Has anyone used this type of filter?
your input would be much appreciated :pipethinker:



Regards Jason

[AstroTasmania]

Hi Phoenix,

No problem with that choice at all. The sun will probably have a yellow/orange tint, which I personally prefer. I have used both types for many years, and actually designed and made several 5.25" aluminised glass filters in 1966, which I published in the BAA Journal. This was before they became generally available.

Another type of solar filter is the Baader Planetarium solar film, which comes in a sheet or a roll and you have to make the cardboard cell to fit your telescope and attach the film material. The solar image is a bright pale blue/white. The image is perhaps slightly sharper.

I would suggest you go with the standard glass filter- it is all ready to use and works very well.

The Baader solar film comes in an A4 sheet size at around $45, which is useful if you want to make several small filters. The 0.5 metre roll is around $100

Check out the Baader Planetarium website if you need to read up about it. Several local retailers should have it in stock. Comes in visual & photograph densities. I would stick with the visual, even for photographic use.

Clear skies...

[CanisMajorTom]

How would someone go about making their own solar filters please?

[AstroTasmania]

Buy some Baader Planetarium solar film - visual density. Check out the link below, all you need to know. It is available through local suppliers. Check around for best price.

http://www.astro-physics.com/index.htm?products/accessories/solar_acc/astrosolar

Clear skies...

[phoenix]

Thanks Astrotasmania 4 your help :thumbsupmate:
Do you know of any good shops around tas that sell telescope and optical equipment ?:hmm:

[AstroTasmania]

Hi Phoenix,

Sadly, we don't have any here, we have to shop on the big north island!

Clear skies...

[Radar]

Shame we can't buy HA solar film. Would save a heap of money.

[Tenacious Del]

Why is it that some HA filters are used for imaging or viewing but others are used for solar? If they only emit HA shouldn't they all be suitable for solar?