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How can I observe the Sun safely?
Home » Astronomy » Adding Equipment » How can I observe the Sun safely?One of the safest methods to observe the Sun is called solar projection. By using only one lens (keep the other covered!) of a pair of binoculars, you can focus the Sun’s light onto a piece of white paper to study sunspots—or use your telescope in the same fashion (taking great care to cover the finderscope.) Hold your makeshift screen at a distance so the circle of light appears about the same size as a small plate, then use your focus to clarify the image. If there are sunspots, they will appear as small, well-defined shadows. This is also a great method to observe eclipse activity! While this is safe, long periods of such use might cause the optics to overheat and crack. NEVER attempt to look at the Sun directly through the optics!
For a fantastic look at the solar surface, it is highly recommended that you buy a glass solar filter. This will fit securely over the end of your telescope or both lenses of your binoculars. These are specially coated to block out any harmful light and provide wonderful, detailed views. You aim simply by aligning the shadow—never uncovering the finderscope.
There are also special filter materials available from which you can construct a solar filter, such as Baader film—but this is not recommended for the amateur. One pinhole or slip could mean the difference between a sighted astronomer and a blind one!
It is safe to securely tape #12 welder’s glass (and ONLY #12!) to binocular lenses for a view, but the view will be far less distinct than with a proper glass solar filter. Be very careful to make sure no other light can enter except through the welder’s glass. Do not use welder’s glass for a telescopic view.
DO NOT attempt to use mylar, smoked glass, exposed film, or a darkening eyepiece filter. None are these methods are safe! Quality solar filters are not that expensive and, when properly cared for, will provide a lifetime of use and safety. It is dangerous enough to look at the Sun with the unaided eye—and even more dangerous through an improperly filtered telescope or binoculars. Be careful!
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- How can I observe the Sun safely?