Solar observing novice

[Jammy]

I have a C9.25 and would like to use it for solar observing, if that is possible.

What do I need to do this safely?

I'd like to watch the transit of Venus.

[Cornelius Varley]

To view the sun safely through your telescope you will need a suitable filter such as this one AstroZap Baader Solar Filter or you can make one using Baader AstroSolar safety film. Do not ever use eyepiece sun filters which sometimes pop up on ebay.

Peter

[Scott]

To view the sun safely through your telescope you will need a suitable filter such as this one AstroZap Baader Solar Filter or you can make one using Baader AstroSolar safety film. Do not ever use eyepiece sun filters which sometimes pop up on ebay.

Peter

Also, EXTREME caution. check the solar filter EVERY time before use buy holding it up to a bright light to make sure there are no pinholes in it. cap or remove your finderscope. it all sounds obvious but it only takes a momentry lapse to cause permanent damage to your eyes. i'm not trying to scare you off but you really need to know the risks.

Scott:glasses1:

[tjr]

Don't forget to put film on your finderscope, or better still just remove it. You can align the scope to the sun using the shadow it casts alone.

[Bizibilder]

As the film is generally A4 size you may have to make a filter that is smaller in diameter than the full aparture of your scope. No need to worry as this will not result in a inferior image at all.

[Ad Astra]

All the advice here is sound. I've been observing the sun for a good long while - you will love it!

Just use common sense and check your filter each time you use it. Also be cautious how you store it. Treat it like a fine and delicate piece of equipment and it will serve you properly for many years.

Dan