150mm R30 for Solar ?

[aviegas]

Hi everyone... Have not yet had much time to try out my 150 mm R30 I recently acquired.... But I was thinking this weekend to maybe give its go solar ( white light)... Any recommendations for solar filter to use? Eventually I may get a Lunt wedge but until then do I need to stop down the aperture? On or off axis? Baader solar film ? Anyone know the proper dimensions? Do I get an inside mounted filter (like the lens cap) or do I get an outside mounted (over the lens cap) ? I think I will mount my PST on the R30, so this is why I am thinking of getting the solar filter...

Thanks for te advice!

Al

[mikey cee]

Hi Al. I've had my 6" f/8 for about 32 years now. I use a full aperture mylar film similar to Baader's. There is no advatage to go off axis since you have an achromat. Also I'd use the full aperture for better resolution. the mylar filter keeps any heat from the Sun out to begin with. As far as mounting I go with an outside mount but that's highly personal. Just make sure you put a couple of pieces of duct tape on the mounting because I don't trust things like that to stay in place. Baader seems to have a good reputation on their solar film. Mike

[jimcurry]

Try a Herschel wedge. No need to stop the scope down just make sure you use the proper filters with it. Maybe that's what you mean by a Lunt wedge.

Jim

[aviegas]

Jim, yes that is what I meant... Thanks Mike I just ordered some Baader film from scopestuff and I will make my own solar filter...

Once I get the scope out this weekend I will post on the CN refractor forum and discuss my new toy...

[jamesling1000]

Hi AL.

This is my personal advice.
If possible, get the glass type, its resolution is pretty close to the lunt wedge solar filter that I now having as my solar kit....
The lunt solar wedge allows you to see much higher surface contrast than the film or glass type,
I purchased it simply I do not want to keep 4 solar filters for my 4 refractors....

Regards

James Ling