Filters for Bright Object viewing.

[Glenhuon]

I've just recently bought a 150 reflector and while its great on most objects, when looking at Jupiter the planet is so bright I can't pick out as much detail as I used with my old 60mm. I have some coloured filters, Blue, Green, Red, Orange and 15/30% moon filters, but none of them seems to make a lot of difference. Can anyone suggest a filter which would be suitable for bright planet viewing.

[erick]

Two polarising filters. You can adjust light transmission by rotating the bottom one relative to the top one. You can reach a point at which almost no light is transmitted.

AOE will sell you a pair of 1.25" for $25.

http://www.aoe.com.au/filters.html

At that price, it's worth a try if you really are struggling with brightness. I've a pair, and done a quick check to see that they will darken the light sufficiently, which they do. Haven't spent the time to see the impact on surface detail.

[Tamtarn]

Bill

Try attaching the blue filter to one of your moon filters.
Maybe the 15% one first.

David

[Glenhuon]

Thanks erick
Have dropped them an email regarding availabilty. (Added site to favourites to, looks very useful) :)

[Glenhuon]

Thanks David, I'll try that toninght.