Baader ND 3.8 Solar Filter Film 20x29cm for Safe Solar Photography

Capturing the sun’s brilliant surface without risking your eyes or equipment is a challenge. This Baader ND 3.8 solar filter film solves that problem by reducing sunlight to a safe 1/6300th of its original intensity, allowing you to photograph sunspots, granulation, and eclipses with clarity and peace of mind. The film measures 20 x 29 cm, giving you ample material for custom mounting on telescopes, camera lenses, or binoculars.

Who is it for

Astrophotographers and advanced amateurs who want high-resolution white-light solar images. It suits those comfortable with DIY projects, as the film must be mounted into a filter cell or holder. Visual observers can also use it on larger apertures, though additional filtering is recommended for extended viewing.

Main features

• Optical density of 3.8 (ND 3.8) transmits only 0.0158% of sunlight
• Diffraction-limited optical quality for sharp, high-contrast images
• Neutral white color balance for natural solar appearance
• Double-sided, non-aging metallic coating with high reflectivity across visible and IR
• CE certified and meets EN ISO 12312-2:2015 for direct solar viewing
• Ultra-thin 12-micron polymer film, streak-free and blister-free
• Large 20 x 29 cm sheet for custom filter construction

Specifications

• Filter type: Solar filter film
• Optical density (ND): 3.8
• Transmission: 1/6300 (approx. 0.0158%)
• Film dimensions (L x W): 290 x 200 mm (20 x 29 cm)
• Primary application: Solar photography
• Secondary application: Visual observation (with additional ND filtering or large apertures)
• Optical quality: Diffraction-limited
• Image color: Neutral white
• Safety certification: CE certified, meets EN ISO 12312-2:2015
• Material: Optically polished polymer film
• Coating: Double-sided, non-aging, highly reflective metallic coating
• Substrate features: Streak-free, blister-free
• Spectral range: White light (broadband)
• Thickness: Approx. 0.012 mm (12 microns)
• Mounting requirement: Requires DIY mounting into a filter cell
• Reflectivity: High reflectivity across visible and IR spectrum
• Compatibility: Suitable for telescopes, binoculars, and camera lenses (when properly mounted)
• Storage recommendation: Store flat, protected from creases and sharp objects

Tips

Always inspect the film for pinholes or damage before use. Mount it securely in a rigid cell to keep the film flat and taut. For visual use, add a secondary neutral density filter to reduce brightness further. Never look at the sun through an unmounted or damaged filter.