Wasted $80 on a solar filter that didn't fit my telescope

I ordered a cheap solar filter online for my 8-inch Dobsonian without checking the exact diameter. It was about an inch too small and I couldn't get it to stay on without tape. The company wouldn't take returns since it was opened. Now I'm out $80 and stuck waiting for the right one. Has anyone else had trouble with filter sizes not matching up?

2 comments

2 Comments

anthony_wells3d agoMost Upvoted

Dude that sucks but honestly $80 seems like a lot for a solar filter unless you got the really nice glass one. You can get a sheet of Baader solar film for like 30 bucks and make your own filter ring with some cardboard. Way cheaper and you can cut it to exactly the right size for your Dob. I mean yeah its a little DIY but its not hard and the film works just as good as the expensive pre-made ones. Also you gotta measure your scope before buying anything, thats like rule number one for any astronomy accessory. Hope the next one fits better.

laura_knight543d agoTop Commenter

Oh boy, I've been there. I ordered a nice pre-made solar filter for my 8-inch SCT a few years back and it was way too big. Felt like a real waste of money. What I ended up doing was getting a sheet of the Baader film and making my own filter out of a piece of foam core board. I cut a hole for the film in the center and then taped the whole thing over the front of the scope. It was maybe 15 bucks total and took an hour or so. Worked perfectly for the 2017 eclipse and still using it today. You just have to be real careful with the film, make sure there's no pinholes or tears in it before you tape it down. I'd say try the DIY route next time, it's a lot easier than you think and you don't have to worry about getting the wrong size again.