Solar Viewing.

[Earl]

I have a Sky Watcher ST80, which I hope will do fine for a dabble at Solar observing? (also double as a guider)

So what Solar Filter should I get?

Can I do the project into a Box technique?

[MarkF]

I just ordered some solar film from FLO, gonna make my own for the ST80, can't say I would fancy letting direct sunlight into my scope for projection.

I am sure on the baader website it shows how to make a filter for any size scope using their film and cardboard.

Here you are http://www.baader-planetarium.com/sofifolie/bauanleitung_e.htm

[NGC 1502]

Hi, the cheapest is to use Baader filter, available in A4 sheets, & make your own holder, to fit over the full aperture.

Just make sure it fits securely & can't come adrift in a breeze.

Regards, Ed.

[johninderby]

Check Scopes'n'Skies Astroboot as they have some useful aluminium cells for £6.00 that can be used to mount the solar film.

http://www.scopesnskies.com/AstroBoot?needle=filter

I think that it's the 94mm ID metal cell that's the right size, but they also do a 108mm one.

John

[MarkF]

Thanks John, just measured the ST80 and the dia is 100mm from the push on dust cap.

[johninderby]

So it's the 108 ID cell then. These cells are the same ones that Astro Engineering used for the Sol Vu solar filters using Baader Solar film.

http://www.scopesnskies.com/prod/solar-observing-filters/telescopes/binoculars/sun-filter

John

[MarkF]

Finally found the 108 and ordered thanks