solar eclipse in 2017

D

Doc Bowers

New member
August 21, 2017 is the date of the next solar eclipse that is scheduled to cross the United States. The longest and highest degree of totality is happening in Kentucky close to Hopkinsville. I own a Panasonic ag-hvx205a that I would like to use to video the eclipse. In the past, I would coat an old filter with lamp black in order to photograph the eclipse (Nikon F2A). The Panasonic instruction book on the ag-hvx200ap warns against pointing the viewfinder into the sun, but nothing about pointing the lens into the sun. I don't know if the built-in neutral density filter would be strong enough for direct sunlight exposure. Any thoughts on how to do this without damaging the camera?
 
Hi Doc, this topic gets covered every time there's a total eclipse anywhere, search. Astronomy forums are also good for info. But basically, if you point your unprotected camera at the uneclipsed sun, you will burn out your sensor really fast, and your ND filter isn't enough protection. Lamp black works, sort of, but better is a solar filter or film from an astronomy supplier. There's mixed views about pointing an unprotected camera at the totality sun, but I think it's worth the risk. Looking forward to the footage, wish I could be there.
 
Something else you might look into is get a piece of welders glass. I did this many years ago to make my own goggles to look at the eclipse back in 79, or was it 80. Check it out. Might be cheapest way to go, besides lamp black.
 
Thanx for the information. I have checked threads listing solar eclipses. The question was asked and there were usually no responses. But, I haven't checked out all 289 threads, yet. I like the suggestions given and will be checking astronomy suppliers. I know there are several places here in Memphis that would be able to supply welders glass. Also, I didn't want to be like some who say, "I'm doing a project this afternoon, and I need....", so I decided to start well before the time of the eclipse.
 
No problem Doc. Not sure how big the welders glass gets, and there are different strengths or densities I guess would be more appropriate. But it is something to think about. Good luck with the shoot.
Cheers.
 
l've checked several astronomy sites. All have suggested use of the strongest, darkest filter available - so dark that you cannot see any normal things through the filter. Manfrotto makes an ND500 filter, but is over $100 for an 82mm filter. Home Depot (and similar stores) sell welders glass for under $5. #14 is the darkest welders glass available and is what is recommended for use in solar eclipses, both for eyes and photography. I believe that I could probably cut a piece that would fit inside the lens hood of my camera. They also note that doubling the glass does not count (for example, you cannot double two #7 welders glass to equal a #14).
 
There ya go Doc. Be careful cutting that glass but it is so cheap you can afford a few mistakes. Ya, you do need the strongest and as I recall mine was so dark you basically can't see anything through it. Safety first.

Cheers.
 
I cut alot of glass - both for frames and windows and for stained glass. So, I'm used to cutting and being cut. Also, I've got to find out what type of glass this is - plate glass, pyrex, etc., and how thick it is. Good thing I also have a glass saw!
 
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