H-a filters for visual observing

[arad85]

Hi all,

I have a Celestron 6SE together with the Baader solar film cap. Are there any "cheap" (I guess up to £100) Ha filters that would give me detail of the surface and better detail on prominences (I've looked for the prominence that was supposedly visible this week and couldn't find it)? Can't afford a PST, so I'm looking for something "on the cheap"...

Not interested in imaging at all - the only reasonably priced filters I can find seem to be these: Filters - Baader Narrowband CCD Emission Line & H-Alpha Filters but they appear to be for CCD imaging of DSOs...

Thanks in advance

[Merlin66]

None of the "normal" deep sky filters you mention can show the solar surface detail or proms.

For this type of observing you, unfortunately need to invest in a specialised Ha filter with a VERY narrow bandwidth of 1A or less.

I think the Lunt or the PST solar scopes are probably still the cheapest ones to start with.

The Lumicon Prom filter I have, which can only be used on SCT's, cost as much as a PST.

[GazOC]

DO NOT LOOK AT THE SUN THROUGH VISUAL OR IMAGING Ha FILTERS. YOU WILL DAMAGE YOUR EYES!!!

[arad85]

None of the "normal" deep sky filters you mention can show the solar surface detail or proms.

For this type of observing you, unfortunately need to invest in a specialised Ha filter with a VERY narrow bandwidth of 1A or less.

I think the Lunt or the PST solar scopes are probably still the cheapest ones to start with.

The Lumicon Prom filter I have, which can only be used on SCT's, cost as much as a PST.

Darn it.. That's what I thought unfortunately PST on the Christmas list it is then.......... but thanks for confirming it...