FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Re: Sunspot Group Near Meridian

[spooner@xxxxxxxxxxx (Michael Spooner)]

I tend to prefer full aperture solar film (at least to 10" that I've tried).
A couple of benefits include cooling the scope by reflecting the heat
instead of absorbing like some masks and I find that 4" or so doesn't allow
enough brightness at high power when the seeing allows. This also allows for
better saturation when I video the images. Also note that light leaking from
the back around the edge of the mirror will destroy the contrast in
reflectors. If you think high magnifications can't be used for solar
viewing, I have some Mercury transit video that is not too shabby.  Don't
think the seeing is much worse in this later millennium. :)
 It does take persistance but daytime viewing can allow some very good
images. With Newtonians, I mount the filter on standoffs to permit venting
at the upper end of the tube.
 --Mike Spooner

----- Original Message -----
From: Tom Polakis <polakis@xxxxxxxx>
> bucks.  Made one 3.5" filter for myself, and gave away three other pieces
> for friends.  All of us now have off-axis solar filters for our
Newtonians.
>  This is one of the better deals in the hobby.  Anybody who knows where
> Tom
>
> ---
>



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