What is the best all round filter?

by Jon Bristow

Hi Jon

Thanks for your question..

The fact is that, there is no all round best filter for all circumstances. The most effective filter is dependent upon your telescope, your equipment, seeing conditions and the objects you wish to observe.

There are actually 3 basic groups of celestial objects that may be enhanced by the use of filters: lunar, planetary and deep sky objects such as nebulae. There isn't any telescope filter that will do everything.

To observe the Moon the foremost requirement is to reduce the light intensity and enhance contrast for easy viewing. This can be achieved by using a Neutral Density or Polarizing filter.

For planetary observing, color filters draw out the most detail simply because planets are naturally colorful. The different color filters reveal different details of the planet you are observing.

Keep in mind that you should use the darkest filter your telescope can cope with. The vast majority of small telescopes make use of light colors. The more substantial the telescope, the darker your filter can be.

Color filters can often be used in addition to a Neutral Density or Polarizing filter to help with glare reduction.