Herschel prism vs. Baader film + aperture

[hunterknox]

Hi all,

I'm after a portable white light solar setup and am trying to choose between a 4" refractor with a Herschel prism and a 6" Mak with Baader film. Lots of variables in there, so I though I'd ask the solar experts.

Any thoughts as to which would give the better view?

[NGC 1502]

Well I'm no expert, but for me I think the Baader filter is the one to go for.

I have looked thru, very briefly, a Herschel prism, and from memory, and

considering price, there is no contest.

Best regards, Ed.

You could go the Baader route with either scope you mention.

[A McEwan]

You could go the Baader route with either scope you mention.

Indeed, but the Herschel Wedge is only useable with a refractor. Personally, I moved onto using a wedge after years of solar film use and immediately noticed an improvement in contrast and image detail. I use it with 120mm and 90mm APOs and there is a lot to see even in the smaller scope. A 4" and wedge would be a good combination and might have the edge in contrast over the 6" and film.

However, there are members here who are far more experienced than I so I will defer to their judgement.

Ant