Rank | Photo | Model | More Info |
#1 |  | Thousand Oaks Optical Filter Sheets | |
#2 |  | SL58-T – Threaded (SolarLite Film) Solar Filter | |
#3 |  | SolarLite Filter for Cameras, Finders, Small Refractors, 70mm Diameter |
When you invest in a solar filter, make sure to find an option that’s made using high-quality materials. The materials should be thick enough to block the sun’s rays and unlikely to crack or break with everyday use. Solar filters also need to be durable, able to withstand high temperatures, and safe for observers.
To reduce the risk of eye damage and see more detail in your photos, you’ll need to get a high-quality solar filter. There are many different types, but the most essential factor is how much light they block. This article talks about the top 3 of the best solar filters for astrophotography and helps you find one that’s perfect for your needs.
There are a lot of solar filters available for astrophotography. But not all of them are created equal. You need to know the basics and figure out what your needs are before choosing a filter to make sure it’s going to work for you.
1)Thousand Oaks Optical Solar Filter Sheets
One of the longest-running eye equipment manufacturers, Thousand Oaks Optical has been in business for more than 35 years. As per the company’s website, their filters were used by NASA aboard the Space Shuttle and other professional uses. The threaded black polymer solar filter sheets fit cameras lenses with screw threads and are available for most major camera models.
Thousand Oaks Optical’s filter gives you the ability to see sunspots and granulation clearly with an optical density rating of 5. It is threaded for a secure fit.
With that sheets, you can quickly make your own solar filter.
2)SL58-T – Threaded (SolarLite Film) Solar Filter
Thousand Oaks Optical, the company that manufactures double-threaded solar filters, is also responsible for creating the SL58-T threaded solar lens filter. This filter uses popular Thousand Oaks SolarLite films and features of black polymers. With this filter, photos will look more yellow. What’s more, buyers also get a small tube to help save the filter.
3)SolarLite Filter for Cameras, Finders, Small Refractors, 70mm Diameter
The Thousand Oaks Optical 70mm lens filter uses an ingenious assembly design that means you can quickly move it into place and are confident that it will stay in the correct position when photographing something like a sun or eclipse. It’s worth mentioning that they designed this and can be found on Amazon with free delivery.
This filter blocks 100% of UVs and IR radiation and 99.999% of intense light, so it should be suitable for most solar observations.
Keep in mind that some risks are involved with using filters, and they still need to be fitted to your lens. The filter’s aperture has a +/- 70mm (2.8″) radius. If you’re using it on lenses or optics that are larger than this calibration, vignetting may happen because the filter is too big for your lens opening.
Conclusion: The Importance of Using the Right Solar Filter for Astrophotography
We have already discussed why there are different types of filters and how they work. We have also talked about what are the three best filters for astrophotography. In my opinion, I will say that the Thousand Oaks Optical 77mm Solar Filter is the best for beginners.
