Solarscope Product Overview

Solarscope manufacture hydrogen-alpha filter systems for observing the Sun. With one of our filters fitted, the true dynamic majesty of our nearest star is revealed in its full glory. From complex looping magnetic fields to dark filaments and arching prominences, a Solarscopehydrogen-alpha filter will bring your view of the Sun to life.

Our Solarview (SV) range gives you a choice of all-in-one, dedicated solar telescopes. All you need to provide is a mount to hold the telescope steady. Apart from delivering a truly astounding performance, these are perfect grab and go scopes. You need never lose track of the Sun again with a Solarview scope.

We also provide the Solar Filter (SF) system which can be used to turn an existing astronomical telescope* into a spectacular solar intrument. Simply decide what size of filter you want, let us know what telescope it has to be fitted to and we’ll do the rest. A Solarscope Solar Filter system will give you views of the Sun which will take your breath away.

* Please check with us if you’re unsure if your telescope is compatible with our SF system

Click here for more information on the Solarview telescope range

Click here for more information on the Solar Filter system range

What is a Hydrogen-Alpha Filter?

The Sun is mostly composed of hydrogen gas. When atoms of hydrogen get excited they emit light at a very specific wavelength, the main one being that called hydrogen-alpha or h-alpha for short. The Sun’s inner atmosphere, called the chromosphere is a complex layer where h-alpha light is emitted, absorbed and re-emitted. If you can tune into this very specific wavelength it’s possible to peek at a side of the Sun not normally seen. Here you’ll be able to see glowing atoms of hydrogen picking out complex lines of magnetic force. Sunspot groups look alive with dark fibrils changing on timescales of just seconds. On the edge of the Sun, huge, flame-like prominences extend out for distances often many times greater than the size of the Earth. The h-alpha Sun is a truly amazing and dynamic spectacle.

A hydrogen-alpha filter blocks all wavelengths of light apart from that at 656.281nm. Actually, there is a small range of wavelengths that still get through either side of this value and the width of this range defines a quantity known as the bandpass of the filter. Making the bandpass narrower increases the contrast of surface features making it easier to see intricate fine detail. However, a very narrow bandpass may make it slightly harder to see prominences in their full glory. Solarscope filters have a bandpass of 0.7 Angstroms which is an excellent compromise supply good surface detail and excellent views of prominences. Adding a further etalon to our SF systems range (an approach referred to as “double stacking”) provides a means to further decrease the bandpass value to 0.5 Angstroms if required.