Narrow Band Filters

[SoulFrenzy]

Are narrow band and nebula filters are as good as billed. I was looking up some on Orion's website. They interest me for sure. But I was wondering are they all that they are supposed to be?

[John]

Narrowband filters such as the UHC and O-III types do enhance the contrast of nebulae. In some cases they make the difference between seeing nothing and seeing an object. Of the Orion filters, I found the Orion Ultrablock the most effective. These filters do not improve the views of galaxies and star clusters though.

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Narrowband filters such as the UHC and O-III types do enhance the contrast of nebulae. In some cases they make the difference between seeing nothing and seeing an object. Of the Orion filters, I found the Orion Ultrablock the most effective. These filters do not improve the views of galaxies and star clusters though.

Agreed, except that some star-burst galaxies can benefit a bit from narrowband filters (wider band LPR may be better).

[John]

Agreed, except that some star-burst galaxies can benefit a bit from narrowband filters (wider band LPR may be better).

That's interesting

Perhaps I should have re-phrased my post "galaxies that I have observed to date don't seem to benefit from these filters"

Are there any examples you can give us of galaxies that might benefit Michael ?.

Thanks

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

My UHC filter has worked quite well on a few spiral galaxies with strong star formation. M82 springs to mind, which is a real starburst galaxy, but some other spirals also benefited. This is simply because of the greater number of star-forming regions, which have more line emission in their spectra. On most galaxies you are right, but if you know it is a star-burst, you can give UHC filters a shot. O-III would not be a good idea.

[ollypenrice]

In smaller apertures the Veil is invisible without, even at a dark site. In larger apertures it is visible but subtle. In an O111 filter it is as plain as day. In a 70mm Pronto it is easy with a Baader O111. Likewise the Rosette in small widefield instruments. So, yes, on some objects they really are a boon. I don't use my O111 on many objects but when I need it I need it.

Olly