Solar filter holder for Sky-Watcher 180mm MAK
Do you want to observe the Sun safely with your Sky-Watcher 180mm MAK telescope? This holder is exactly what you need as the foundation of your solar observation setup. It is a precision-made mechanical holder - supplied without a filter - designed to fit securely and reliably onto the front lens of your 180mm Maksutov-Cassegrain tube. It also provides a ready-made opening for easy mounting of your chosen solar filter material.
Designed specifically for Sky-Watcher 180mm MAK telescopes
This holder is made exclusively for Sky-Watcher 180mm MAK telescopes - including the popular Sky-Watcher Skymax-180 in both EQ and AZ mount versions. The shape and dimensions are precisely matched to this telescope tube, so installation is straightforward and the result is stable and secure.
Please note: the filter material is not included. The holder serves as a mounting frame into which you insert and secure the solar filter of your choice.
Compatible filter materials
The most commonly used material is Baader Astro Solar Film, available in two versions:
- Photo ND 3.8 - for photography and imaging
- Visual ND 5.0 - for direct visual observation
The film is simply stretched over the prepared opening and secured in place. This solution is very popular among amateur astronomers thanks to the excellent optical quality of the film, its affordable price, and the ease of replacement if the film becomes damaged. Other compatible solar filter films can also be used, as long as they match the size of the holder opening.
Why a proper filter holder matters for safe solar observation
Safe solar observation requires a filter placed in front of the objective lens - that is, at the point where light enters the telescope, not behind the eyepiece. This holder ensures that the filter material is held firmly and securely in place, cannot come loose on its own, and will not shift accidentally during observation.
Whether you are an experienced observer or a complete beginner, the same rule applies: improvised solutions are not acceptable for solar observation. A quality filter holder is an essential safety component.
What you can observe
Together with a suitable Baader solar film, this holder gives you an affordable and reliable way to observe:
- The solar photosphere
- Sunspots
- Planetary transits across the Sun
The complete assembly is lightweight, easy to carry, and takes only a few seconds to install on your Maksutov-Cassegrain 180mm telescope tube.
Key specifications
| Parameter |
Details |
| Compatible telescope |
Sky-Watcher Skymax-180 (180mm MAK), EQ and AZ versions |
| Tube diameter |
180mm Maksutov-Cassegrain |
| Filter included |
No - holder only |
| Recommended filter material |
Baader Astro Solar Film ND 3.8 (Photo) or ND 5.0 (Visual) |
| Mount type |
Front-mounted (objective end) |
