What is the best and safest way to view the sun through a telescope?

In summary: An adapter costs about $10, and can be had at most camera stores. It simply screws onto the eyepiece, and has a hole in the front so that the camera's lens can fit. You don't need a digital camera; any camera with a standard lens will work. There is no need to be afraid of projecting an image onto a sheet of paper. Just be sure to hold it at arm's length, and move it until you get a sharp, clear image.
  • #1
Dagenais
290
4
I have been thinking about picking-up two things for my telescope. A camera adapter and solar filter.

How much does a good solar filter usually cost (one that I can buy at a store, not on the internet)? Where can I purchase one? I also hear that one should never buy one that goes over the eyepiece, but over the front of the telescope instead.

How much does an adapter cost to connect a digital camera to a telescope?
 
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  • #2
I never trust the filters
but to look at sunspots I just project the image on a sheet of paper
even with a very small scope you can get a large image that way and it is both totaly safe and free
just hold a sheet of paper about 1 to 3 feet away and move it intill you get a sharpe image
 
  • #3
Project from my telescope? Won't this destroy the inside?
 
  • #4
Originally posted by kenikov
Project from my telescope? Won't this destroy the inside?

NO it will not unless you have a plastic lenz or mirror and will protect your eyes from uv-rays

you can also use a cheap pair of bi-knocks
and get a large immage that severial people can see at once with nice sharp sun spots by projecting on paper
 
  • #5
Originally posted by ray b
NO it will not unless you have a plastic lenz or mirror and will protect your eyes from uv-rays

you can also use a cheap pair of bi-knocks
and get a large immage that severial people can see at once with nice sharp sun spots by projecting on paper
Very many high-cost eyepieces have been ruined by "solar projection". Even in the good glass, some elements in some designs are cemented (glued), and the heat from the objective can destroy the cement and/or break the glass.

A full-aperture solar filter is safe if reasonably well made. Two US companies make glass filters of different sizes, but most people now use the "film" filter material from Baader, in Germany. It gives higher resolution, and it even comes with instructions on how to make a filter cell from a few $ worth of glue and paper. Very safe and very high resolution.
 

1. What is a solar filter and why is it important for cameras?

A solar filter is a specialized filter that is used to block harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays from the sun. It is important for cameras because it protects the camera's lens and sensor from damage and allows for safe observation and photography of the sun.

2. Can any camera use a solar filter?

No, not all cameras are compatible with solar filters. Only cameras with interchangeable lenses or those that can attach filters to the lens can use a solar filter. Point-and-shoot cameras and smartphones usually do not have this capability.

3. What type of solar filter is best for photography?

The best type of solar filter for photography is a neutral density filter. It blocks harmful rays while allowing enough visible light to pass through for clear and detailed images of the sun. It is important to make sure the filter is specifically designed for solar observation and not just a regular camera filter.

4. Can a solar filter be used for other types of photography?

Solar filters are specifically designed for solar observation and should not be used for other types of photography. They are not suitable for everyday use and can cause damage to your camera if used incorrectly.

5. How do I safely attach and use a solar filter on my camera?

To safely use a solar filter on your camera, you should first read the instructions that come with the filter. Make sure the filter is securely attached to the lens and is covering the entire front of the lens. Never look directly at the sun through the camera's viewfinder or LCD screen. Instead, use the camera's live view function to frame and focus the shot. Always use a tripod to avoid camera shake and take frequent breaks to avoid eye fatigue.

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