Remixed Orion 8" Solar Filter Frame

thingiverse

Finally acquired an 8-inch Orion Dobsonian telescope to view the sun, but pre-made solar filters are pricey, despite the affordable cost of the film itself. Came across a design on Thingiverse originally created by Munive and decided to break it down for printing on my 220mm print bed. Started by lowering the resolution in Meshmixer to divide the model into equal sections using Tinkercad. Printed the parts with ABS and assembled them, cutting a circle from MDF as support for the "cap" assembly, securing it with super glue and J-B weld. After setting, attached the solar film over the MDF opening with thin strips of duct tape on all four edges, ensuring no light could pass through the edges, then screwed the rim pieces in place for a secure yet reversible attachment. Note: The "cap" is cut into 4 pieces labeled 1-4; print all and lay them out in a clockwise fashion. The "rim" was divided into thirds but are identical, so just print three of those. Solar film can be sourced from various places; I obtained mine on Amazon. Used an 8-inch square piece of solar film, though next time I would use a 10-inch piece and cut it down for more overlap with the frame. **Disclaimer:** Improperly assembled or used solar filters on a telescope can cause permanent blindness. I assume no liability for harm resulting from this design. Verify that no light passes through when assembled and inspect for pin-holes in the film with each use. Enjoy responsibly.