DIY solar filter size?

[DazC]

Hi all,

I'm thinking of making a solar filter for my 10" dob but have just been looking at the price of Baader solar film.

I was wondering, would there be much of a difference in the views I would get if I just made a filter for the removable part of the end cap?

I have used this method for viewing the planets before and got good results but was just wondering if the brightness/contrast would be affected what with the sun being so bright?

Thanks.

D.C

[Steve Ward]

Unless you're blessed with perfect seeing where you are there is no point in making a full aperture filter for the 10" ...

An off-axis holder that accommodates a 4-5" filter positioned between the secondary spider vanes will give very good detailed views ... 

[spaceboy]

I did one for my 8" but the solar film only allowed for 6" of that aperture to be for solar observing. I think you can get it on a roll but it is rather exspensive.

[spaceboy]

Sorry just seen your signature. You'd be better off doing one for the 130eq

[DazC]

Ok, thanks to you both.

I think I'll probably try an off axis filter for the dob, as the 130mm is packed away in storage.

D.C