The most intnse solar strom in 50 years

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around observing solar phenomena during a period of solar minimum, specifically addressing concerns about eye safety and equipment damage when viewing the sun. The scope includes practical observational techniques and equipment recommendations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that solar minimum has arrived, leading to a lack of sunspots and solar flares.
  • One participant suggests using a telescope with a hydrogen-alpha filter or a metal-film filter for safe observation.
  • Another participant recommends visiting the SOHO webpage for information or acquiring a solar filter for telescopes.
  • Several participants propose projecting the sun's disk onto a sheet of paper as a zero-cost and safe method for observation.
  • Concerns are raised about potential damage to optical equipment if exposed to direct sunlight, with a suggestion to use an aperture filter instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods for safely observing the sun, but there is no consensus on a single best approach, and some disagreement exists regarding the safety of different techniques.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the safety of different observational methods without resolving the potential risks associated with each technique. The discussion reflects varying levels of concern about equipment damage and eye safety.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in solar observation techniques, amateur astronomers, and those concerned about eye safety when viewing solar phenomena.

scott1
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http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2006/10mar_stormwarning.htm?list862664
March 10, 2006: It's official: Solar minimum has arrived. Sunspots have all but vanished. Solar flares are nonexistent. The sun is utterly quiet.
Is there anyway to observe this without becoming blind?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Sure. Use a telescope with a hydrogen-alpha filter if you have cash, or a metal-film filter if you don't.

- Warren
 
Go the SOHO webpage. Or get a solar filter for your telescope.
 
project the suns disk on a sheet of paper
any telescope or even bi-nocks will work
zero cost or danger
 
ray b said:
project the suns disk on a sheet of paper
any telescope or even bi-nocks will work
zero cost or danger
No danger to your eyes, but perhaps danger to your telescope or more likely, the eyepiece.
 
Indeed. If you value your optical equipment, never expose it to direct sunlight. Instead, use an aperture filter.

- Warren
 

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