Solar Filter for Orion Starblast 6i Telescope

This is a solar filter for the Orion Starblast 6i telescope. The design can be printed in place with no supports, and uses compliant mechanisms to secure itself into the tube. 

Also, there is a printable case for this filter, designed with love by JammerX19. Thanks for your hard work! 

Safety

Always keep the optics pointed away from the sun until you have all optics either covered or filtered. Unsecured lenses can start fires or damage sensors and eyes. Be careful that your finder scope is covered, or feel free to try my print-in-place solar finder for Orion telescopes :)

Parts

• Baader AstroSolar 5.0 Safety Film
• Double Sided Tape

Printing

Print in PETG to prevent warping and weakening in the sunlight. I used the Cura generic PETG profile with the following modifications for my Hatchbox Black PETG. 

• Print Thin Walls Enabled
• Print Temp 225 C
• Cooling Fan Speed 50%
• Infill 15%

Testing

Before assembly (and cutting the film), test the parts to make sure they fit. First, verify that the base piece fits inside the telescope end without cracking or falling out. Then, use a piece of clear plastic wrap to verify that the base and cap will hold a thin material without adhesive. If both parts pass, proceed to assembly!

Assembly

Begin by washing the parts in soap and water to remove adhesive residue, which can ruin the fit. Then, cut pieces of double sided tape to cover the bottom of the base and the mating surface of the cap. Included pictures show where to place tape. Cut away any tape within 2mm of the edge of the base or cap, so that the pieces mate correctly. 

Then, follow the directions to cut a piece of the solar safety film. Drop the base tape-side down from 10mm onto the surface of the safety film, and use an exacto knife or razor to cut away any film that exceeds the edge of the base. Check to make sure the film has no holes or punctures, and that the film is held loosely yet securely. 

Finally, lower the cap onto the film so that the film is taped on both sides. Test the final part by verifying that the cap does not peel off of the base. 

Enjoy the print!

This model was designed and built by me, and is totally free. If you really like it, feel free to support me by buying me a hammer!