Re: Which scope and which filter to view Mercury transit
A properly made solar filter will not “come apart” in use, double sided tape is not recommended usually as it can loosen from the heat while observing. If the filter is not held by a tight press fit or nylon screws it should then be firmly taped into place.
Never view with a loose fitting filter.
Baader and Kendrick Astro both have excellent instructions on making a proper cell for the film.
When not in use the filter should be stored in a container to keep it from sharp objects and visually checked before use the same as any film or glass solar filter. If a spot/ pinhole is found a black marker or paint can be used to cover it.
In terms of resolution the best is a Herschel wedge followed by the Baader solar film and then Mylar and glass filters.
Resolution differences can be found online on various websites if wanting to check.
Refractors: Antares 105 f/15, Celestron 150 f/8, Stellarvue NHNG 80 f/6.9, TAL 100RS f/10, TS 102 f/11, UR 70 f/10, Vixen SD115s f/7.7
Mounts: Celestron SLT w/ pier mod & EQ-3 tripod, Celestron hypertuned CG-5 w/ tracking motor & Argo Navis, Manfrotto 028B w/ Stellarvue M2C, Manfrotto 055PRO w/ 128RC, TAL-1 HD EQ, Vixen SXP w/ HAL-130 SXG & half pier
Diagonals: 2" Astro-Physics MaxBright, 2" Zeiss/ Baader prism, 2" Baader Herschel Wedge (Photo Version), 2"
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Amici prism, 2" Stellarvue Dielectric, 2" TeleVue Everbrite
Eyepieces: A-Z
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The weakest link in the optical chain is the large nut located directly behind the
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/ camera. - Gabrielle
Ya gotta keep this Apo/
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thing in some balance of perspective. Apos are awesome, but long focus Achros aren't that far behind them - Siriusandthepup (CN)
Refractors kick arse precisely because they don't hide behind excuses. That is, they have no obstructions to hide behind. - Jon Isaacs (CN)