Troubles getting H-alpha Solar observation programme working

[Rhushikesh-Canisminor]

Hello!

Greetings fRom Mumbai!

So it looks like I can't get my solar observation programme working properly. As a freelance astronomy educator, I added solar programme in my activities from November 2016 with a Lunt50mm H-alpha scope. Although night sky observations are on a run since November,  having 10-12 sessions per month for private,corporate, trekking/camping or simple plain overnight events, Solar sessions are next to minimum. Facing many problems like people having literally no clue about H-alpha scope, troubles with understanding safety measures and sometimes getting straight rude comments like "it's a con. "(Even got these from some professionals as well). Doesn't look like I will have some positive result in this season as I have last 2 months before rainy season begins. If anyone else have faced or facing similar issues, please give some inputs!

Looks like double stacking my 50mm and having a short tube 120mm refractor + QUARK have to wait for another year! *disappointed*

[Merlin66]

Rhushikesh,

I think your work is admirable!

Unfortunately as you're finding solar observing brings with it it's own set of issues!!!

Could I suggest joining the world's largest solar forum - SolarChat

https://solarchatforum.com/

Many of the members have outreach experience through the Charlie Bates Project - they may be able to give you support and guidance....

Don't give up!!!

 

[David Smith]

Good advice from Merlin66 above, lots of folk on solarchat who are active in outreach and may have some advice for you. I guess the Sun being so quiet at the moment is not helping your cause. Good luck with your programme, outreach is not something I will ever be comfortable doing so I have a lot of respect for those who do.

[Rhushikesh-Canisminor]

11 hours ago, David Smith said:

 I guess the Sun being so quiet at the moment is not helping your cause.

You are right. Luckily, I had pretty okay sun while I gave few demos around in november/december. People who have seen through H-alpha scope, know that it just changes the whole perspective. Others have practically 0 idea about it!

 

12 hours ago, Merlin66 said:

 

Many of the members have outreach experience through the Charlie Bates Project 

 

I did try to contact CBSAP officials. I either got no reply, or a completely negative reply, which was kind of more disturbing than disheartening. Has got me pretty suspicious about dealing with them.

I will surely be registering at Solarchat though. Just don't know whether it will be helpful.