January 30, 2015: First light with SM-II 60

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Finally got a look at the sun with the new SolarMax II 60mm. Clear step up from the LS35, showing a lot more detail, and allowing much more magnification. I do like the focuser and tuning system more than the old LS35s, and sweet-spotting is more of an issue. I do find you have to nail the exit pupil just right at low magnification, or else the central obstruction causes problems. The Lunt B1200 blocking filter does not work, as the SM60 lets through loads of bright blue/green light, which is not stopped by the B1200 (odd, given the Lunt description of the blocking filter). Evidently, the ERF in the Lunt is very different from the SM-II. I have a 63mm ERF which might sort this problem out. It is already mounted in a wooden frame that could be attached to the SM-II. Alternatively, a 1.25" Baader H-alpha filter screwed into the B1200 might do the trick. Otherwise, I might sell the B1200 and get a BF10, as the BF5 is a bit claustrophobic.

Still, well pleased with the new scope and its performance