best 'scope for solar observing?

[Albireo380]

I have an 80mm f6 refractor. I was thinking of getting a white light filter for it and trying my hand at sunspot imaging, using my Canon 500D.

But I wondered:

1. Would it be better to get a cheapie, longer focal length 'scope, and thus increase the magnification? Or would my 'scope be okay.

2. Would imaging using a white light filter cause any damage to my camera?

Thanks for your help.

Tom

[brianb]

1. Does your scope have significant chromatic aberration? If so, use a W58 green filter, or the Baader solar continuum filter. Otherwise your scope will do OK ... a longer focal length will give you a bigger solar disk image, but you can use a barlow or teleconverter to get the same effect. A premium focuser is a Big Help.

2. No. If it's safe for your eye, it's definitely safe for your camera.

[Albireo380]

Thanks BrianB,

It is a good quality 'scope - no chromatic aberation to speak of.

I also have a decent barlow - so will start looking for an appropriate white light filter.

Thanks

Tom