SolarChat!

Hi Everyone:

Well in the last two days I have been vacillating regarding what solar telescope or filter to buy. I decided within an hour not to buy a Coronado scope (no offense intended to anyone) because for a few hundred dollars more Lunt has superior quality. I then was taken by the Lunt 60mm H-alpha Telescope BF1200 double stacked. It offers great views and potential images of the full disk of the sun and even half the disk. But since I want to eventually do imaging, I thought it would be fantastic to do some close-up views of the surface as well. So I looked at the Daystar Quantum filters, and the prices rise drastically out of my price range, particularly beyond 0.7 angstrom (I would also have to buy a quality refractor). Finally, I checked the Solarscope site, but Ken does not list any prices, and I have a feeling they are hefty.

So, I want to do some observing, but ultimately mostly imaging. I want sharp views / images of solar disc but also details of the surface. I guess I want my cake and want to eat it too. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
-Charles

My astronomy website:
http://www.lightfigures.com/DSS2/index.htm

Hi and welcome.

There is absolutely only one answer to this question, in ,my opinion of course...Lunt single etalon LS80.

This is the best value in dedicated solar scopes on the market today. Start with the single etalon and then if you want, add the double stacked later when you master the scope.

Hmm. I haven't considered that. Two questions:
Will I be able to achieve significantly better detail regarding solar surface with the 80mm?
How much difference does a single versus double stack really make?
Thanks.

you might check my other site www.solarscopereviews.com

I just did. Makes the choice even harder. It really just comes down to budget now.

-Charles

Hi Charles

welcome to that wonderful site. Have fun in the sun.

I second Stephens words. Go first single stack, then upgrade. Take a LUNT 80 or even 100