Baader AstroSolar Filter Film OD 5.0 review

Baader AstroSolar Filter Film OD 5.0 is a thin, silvery metalized film that can be cut and mounted in various filter cells or cardboard. It is not a pre-made filter, but rather a DIY material that experienced eclipse photographers and solar observers often rely on for safe and clear sun viewing.

The film's defining feature is its extreme thinness, around 0.01 mm, which makes it delicate and prone to wrinkling. However, wrinkles can actually improve the image quality. Its versatility allows for the creation of filters for different equipment, including binoculars, cameras, and telescopes. It comes in various sizes and formats, including loose sheets and pre-made filters for DIY use or ready-made options for specific equipment.

The performance of Baader AstroSolar Filter Film OD 5.0 is marked by producing a sharp, high-contrast, white-light view of the sun. This results in clearly defined sunspots, a crisp solar limb, and a neutral white tone, as opposed to the deep orange produced by some polymer filters. Photographers appreciate the neutrality of the white solar disk, as it is easier to adjust in editing, while casual eclipse watchers might prefer the more familiar orange appearance.