Solar Photography Safety
This page is important. If you are using Transit Chaser for Sun transits, please read this before pointing any camera, lens, telescope, or binoculars at the Sun.
The short version is simple: never look at the Sun through unfiltered optics.
Use a proper solar filter
You need a proper solar filter designed for solar viewing or solar photography. The filter must go on the front of the lens or telescope, before sunlight enters the optics.
Do not rely on sunglasses, normal ND filters, polarising filters, smoked glass, dark plastic, exposed film, or anything random that just “looks dark”. Looking dark does not mean it blocks dangerous light.
If you are unsure whether a filter is safe, do not use it. Check with a reliable astronomy or solar photography source first.
Do not look through an unfiltered camera or telescope
A camera lens or telescope concentrates sunlight. Looking through it without a proper solar filter can permanently damage your eyes. This can happen quickly.
The same applies when using binoculars, spotting scopes, finderscopes, or any optical device. If it magnifies the Sun, it can also magnify the danger.
Check the filter before every session
Before photographing the Sun, check your solar filter for scratches, holes, cracks, loose fittings, or damage. Make sure it is attached securely and cannot fall off in the wind or while moving the camera.
If the filter is damaged, stop. Do not try to patch it quickly and keep shooting.
Be careful with children and bystanders
If you are shooting in a public place, people may be curious. Do not let anyone look through your camera or telescope unless you are completely sure the setup is safe.
Children especially may not understand the risk. Keep your gear supervised.
Transit Chaser does not make solar viewing safe
Transit Chaser can help predict possible aircraft crossings of the Sun, but it does not make solar photography safe by itself. The app only gives timing information. Safety is still up to the person using the camera.
If an alert appears and you are not safely set up, do not rush. Missing a photo is better than damaging your eyes or equipment.
Heat and equipment
Direct sunlight can also heat camera gear, especially when using long lenses or telescopes. Keep an eye on your equipment, cables, screens, and mounts during long sessions.
If something feels wrong, stop and check it. Solar work is not the place to guess.
Basic safe workflow
Fit the solar filter first. Check it is secure. Aim carefully. Focus safely. Set your exposure. Then leave Transit Chaser running while you wait for possible aircraft alerts.
If you need to remove the filter, move the camera away from the Sun first.
Final word
Sun transit photography can be incredible, but only when done properly. Use the right filter, check your setup, and never look at the Sun through unfiltered optics.
No photo is worth your eyesight.