First time solar imaging

[DanLXIX]

I'm wanting to have a go a solar imaging this year, I've never done anything at all with solar. With the gear in my signature, what would I be able to achieve and what filters would be best to get?

[Altocumulus]

Cheapest option to test the waters would be Baader Solar film - make a 'cell' to place in front of your 'scope. That'll give you white light images - sunspots and the 'orange peel' surface.

[Owmuchonomy]

If you purchase a solar filter (https://www.firstlightoptics.com/solar-filters/astrozap-baader-solar-filter.html) for your 150 PDS you will be able to image in white light only.  You could make your own with Baader film too. The only features you will pick up are sunspots or in periods of great seeing you may resolve some surface granulation.  You can use your Nikon at prime focus but it's best to take high frame rate video and stack the results to get a final image.  Best to use your ZWO ASI 120MM but check with the FOV calculator on the FLO site to see how much of the solar disk you can accommodate with that chip in your system.  Remember to remove any finder scopes when observing the Sun!

Edited March 26, 2021 by Owmuchonomy

[DanLXIX]

Thanks for that. I only expected limited ability but I never thought about the ZWO camera. I'll get a film filter and have a play.