Colour Filters for Planetary

[pgc hunter]

I've never been much of user of colour filters, as I've always preferred the au naturale view. I've got a red, orange, green and yellow that have been sitting in my eyepiece box for perhaps the last decade have been used less times than the number of annual sunny days in Melbourne. I guess they never really did anything for me.

Last night I was observing Mars and decided to have a play around. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The Orange filter was excellent on the planet, it increased the dark surface markings not only subtly, but quite significantly in my opinion. Without filter, they are quite subtle, but using the filter they were certainly enhanced with additional detail visible. Looks like I'll be making more use of these.

[omegacrux (David)]

Been wondering about them got a ND 13% coming to try on the moon and doubles might invest in some colours now

[orestis]

Hi Sab,

Yes i prefer the natural view most of the time aswell,But the colour filters accentuate the detail quite a bit sometimes.I have a blue and also green filter and they work a treat on jupiter accentuating the bands.

Quite amazing what a tinted piece of glass can do,Still i think they are way overpriced for what they are selling for $20 each at bintel,I mean seriously all it is,is coloured glass.


Enjoy the view,
Regards orestis

[Rob_K]

Must admit, had a set for years and never really used them. Didn't see much improvement with them to be honest. In any case it's a dead-set shame turning a wonderful planet into a garishly-coloured nightmare. OK, Mars with an orange filter might be acceptable!!

Numbers are dwindling now as I've gradually 'converted' them for use with some weird & wonderful experimental filters, courtesy the Surplus Shed. Still have the glass rounds, might make a good mobile sometime...

Cheers -