Don't know what the scope is that you have. Herschel Wedges generally are used to reduce the light level by the reflection of only part of the light from the sun to the eye. Depending upon how yours got built, I might use it for solar viewing. If it's adjustable for reflection angle at the scope, it's time to be a bit carefull. You might want to put a photography lightmeter to the EP to see if the light level is too bright. If it's not adjustable (except by the use of tools to move the mirrors) then it is probably safe to use as is. I would still use a lightmeter to insure that the light level isn't too bright. If the meter isn't pegged it'll be ok. It sounds like you took over a small observatory and the previous custodian didn't show you all of the equipment that you have. Good Luck and be sure to start putting on public shows on a regular basis if you can. The public really needs to understand about science.

• Re: Herschel Wedge??? - Bill_Geertsen/">Bill Geertsen - August 9, 1999 - 01:18 UTC