I searched but I couldn't find a definitive answer on solar filtration.
I'd like to image the eclipse in a few weeks but I'm not sure if the piece of solar film which is currently sticky-taped to the end cap of my 8" newt is in good enough condition (and I'm not willing to 'look and see').
So the safest option is to replace it, the options seem to be black polymer, mylar film or a pre-made filter of either. What are the advantages/disadvantages? Pre-made or film?
The commercial solar white light filters are either glass coated with chrome/ aluminium or Baader Solar Film (not mylar!)
The Seymour brand (in the US) is a black polymer.....
IMHO the Baader Solar film is 100% safe when fitted correctly and gives good performance on all scopes.
For a refractor, a Herschel wedge is ideal, but expensive.
Hi Murhpy, for a quick test to see if your filter material is ok , just hold it at arms length an look at the sun , moving it around , you should not be able to see any bright sparkly things , ( pin holes in the material ) if there is only a few a little black tape (3mm sq) over them wont effect the view , and save your eyes .
Brian.
Thanks for your responses guys! I got some time to myself this morning to take my filter out and check for holes, the whole surface is a lovely glittery gold
Looks like I'll have to get a filter on order. Thanks for your help.
One more thing Murphy , solar film has to be left loose and all wrinkly , not stretched tightly , do that and I will tear while you are using it OHCH!! instant blindness , not to mention the pain ..
Brian.
Duly noted, thanks Brian. I'll have the camera hooked up most of the time while I observe from the safety of a laptop but I'll definitely be extra careful when observing visually.
Hey guy's perfect timing with this thread.. What I want to know is where can I buy some for my 8" reflector. It's hard to google when you're never seen the stuff! Also what's the film worth $$!
I was not happy with the Seymour solar polymer sheets. They blocked too much light for photography and the image wasn't that sharp.
Recently purchased an Orion glass solar filter for the ED80 and it's a winner. Much sharper and brighter than the Seymour while still giving good colour and protection.
Andrew,
The Baader Solar film is 100% safe to use with any telescope.
The key is to make 100% sure it's securely fixed to the aperture and CANNOT be easily dislodged.
For truss type scopes you'll need to use a shroud to prevent unwanted light and reflections.
Andrew,
The Baader Solar film is 100% safe to use with any telescope.
The key is to make 100% sure it's securely fixed to the aperture and CANNOT be easily dislodged.
For truss type scopes you'll need to use a shroud to prevent unwanted light and reflections.
Ahh thank you Ken. Looks like I'll have to grab myself a shroud and some film then cheers
Hi Murhpy, for a quick test to see if your filter material is ok , just hold it at arms length an look at the sun , moving it around , you should not be able to see any bright sparkly things , ( pin holes in the material ) if there is only a few a little black tape (3mm sq) over them wont effect the view , and save your eyes . 
stretched tightly , do that and I will tear while you are using it OHCH!!
instant blindness , not to mention the pain .. 
