Hi,
Sorry if anyone has already asked a similar question elsewhere, but this transit will be my first (OK, second) time using a solar filter (I got a baader one from astrozap).
I did my research, and ensured I got one which is to be used for visual (it's this one: https://www.astrozap.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=35).
But my question is:
After testing out the filter for the first time yesterday morning (caught a nice sunspot or two), I went to change eyepieces. When looking down the scope, with the eyepiece removed, I noticed around 20 or so tiny little pinholes in the filter - is this normal upon first use?! The instructions say to cover them with a black marker?
I ensured i hardly tightened the nylon thumbscrews at all (it fits like a glove and would take a small tornado to blow off) as I didn't want to over-stretch and damage the material.
I must have been out in the morning sun for around 1-1/2 hours in total, the whole time tracking the sun with my 8'' Newtonian.
Was I doing something wrong? Should I not try to observe for so long? Should this many pinholes appear on 1st use with filter!?!
I can confirm I still have both my eyes, and it didn't seem to affect anything, however, I am a little wary about using it again tomorrow if I am doing something wrong.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
(p.s. apologies if I was not supposed to add hyperlinks - just tell me and I will remove them).