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Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2021 8:59 pm
by John Donne
I have this filter and would like to know how long I can view safely.
Viewed a nice spot on the upper right edge of the sun just now.
Thoughts on this filter. It is mounted on an SE8.
Thank you
Re: Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2021 9:29 pm
by Lowjiber
That's a Spectrum Telescope white-light filter. They make good stuff.
Just make sure you don't get any scratches on the surface... A little care goes a long way. Should last a long time.
Clear Skies
Re: Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2021 9:33 pm
by John Donne
Thank you John.
Re: Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sun Sep 19, 2021 5:38 am
by Lady Fraktor
A nice filter!
Before using always look through it towards the sun to see if there are any pinholes in the surface. If you find any cover them with a black Sharpie will work but I prefer to use black nail polish. Just enough to cover the pinhole is enough.
You should be fine for viewing long term but you can check by placing your hand on the tube. If it is getting hot take a break but remember to not leave the telescope pointed towards the sun.
If you find the view is to bright even with using a polarizer you can make a aperture mask to block off some of the filter area.
Re: Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sun Sep 19, 2021 3:52 pm
by John Donne
Lady Fraktor wrote: ↑Sun Sep 19, 2021 5:38 am
A nice filter!
Before using always look through it towards the sun to see if there are any pinholes in the surface. If you find any cover them with a black Sharpie will work but I prefer to use black nail polish. Just enough to cover the pinhole is enough.
You should be fine for viewing long term but you can check by placing your hand on the tube. If it is getting hot take a break but remember to not leave the telescope pointed towards the sun.
If you find the view is to bright even with using a polarizer you can make a aperture mask to block off some of the filter area.
Thank you Gabrielle. I was wondering if that would serve to test the filter.
Have done and all is well. I will take care of this piece of kit.
I think I will do a mask.
Would cleaning be the same as I would do for my Objective or an
EP?
Thank you.
Re: Question regarding solar filter
Posted: Sun Sep 19, 2021 4:10 pm
by Thefatkitty
Hey Mark, welcome to the wonderful world of Solar!
As for care of your filter; this should help:
glass solar filter instruction sheet.
For storage, I have mine in a tupperware container. Been good for 5+ years now...
All the best,