I have a 5" reflector, and am considering getting some filters. I live in an area that has some pretty bad light pollution, so I have been looking at some of the UHC/LPR filters, and am wondering if this would be worth the money. I am also looking into solar filters, and could use some advice with those as well.
2006-12-09 15:28:54 · 3 answers · asked by moto 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
A good all-around filter is the Baader Moon & Skyglow (neodymium) filter. It will darken the sky background but also performs great as a planetary filter. Not as agressive on nebulae as UHC types, but a filter you can use most of the time for most objects (except the sun of course).
2006-12-10 06:40:29 · answer #1 · answered by Search first before you ask it 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
UHC / LPR filters work, but the effect is more subtle than you might expect. If you can borrow one, or maybe contact your local astronomy society and try one there, you could make your own decision. Have you got 1.25" eyepieces? A 5" reflector is quite small - they're often supplied with .96" eyepieces and I'm not sure if you can get LPR filters in that size.
Raymond's right about the solar filter, but always make sure it's in good condition before you use it!
2006-12-09 23:56:38 · answer #2 · answered by Iridflare 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
For a solar filter, always by a full-aperture filter (one that fits over the entire front end of the tube) NOT a solar filter for the eyepiece. Mine exploded as I was looking through it (40 years ago) and the telescoe was only a 2.5 inch. In your 5-inch, it would gather 4 times the heat.
It would make your day rather unpleasant...
2006-12-09 15:37:23 · answer #3 · answered by Raymond 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋