Quote:
Originally Posted by ausastronomer
Rob,
You keep on harping about the "necessity" of a moon filter for observing the moon. As I have mentioned previously I own a 2" variable polariser which gets used about once a year (if it's lucky), when my wife wants to look at the moon with me in the 18" scope. When I observe alone using the 18" scope on the moon I always observe it unfiltered.
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John,
Note the quotes around essential!! When people start observing they tend to shy away from the fuller moon because it is uncomfortable. Not saying it will do any damage, but it is very bright. A moon filter tends to make it more comfy and they tend to use it and observe the moon instead of avoiding it, as in your wife's case. As they progress the moon filter tends to stay in the filter box like all the others but by that time they are confident about observing the moon unfiltered and will continue to do so.
As for the rest of the filters none are essential is my point until the observer gets into the more specialist viewing demands based on their observing style, then it is time to invest in filters, like most other accessories.