The Sun, our nearest star, is one of the most interesting objects in the sky. It is a large object easily observed by amateur astronomers using telescopes of small aperture, and binoculars. To find out more information about the Sun, the SPA Bookshop offers a number of books, including recommended ways for observing it safely.

GREAT CAUTION IS NEEDED AT ALL TIMES WHEN OBSERVING THE SUN.

NEVER LOOK AT THE SUN THROUGH ANY OPTICAL DEVICE WITHOUT THE USE AS INSTRUCTED OF APPROVED SPECIALIST FILTERS OVER THE FRONT END OF THE TELESCOPE. GUIDE SCOPES MUST BE KEPT COVERED.

DO NOT USE A TELESCOPE WHICH MAY HAVE PLASTIC PARTS SOMEWHERE.

DO NOT USE AT ANY TIME ANY EYEPIECE WITH A SOLAR FILTER ON IT.

NEVER LOOK OR STARE AT THE SUN WITH NAKED EYES AS SERIOUS DAMAGE COULD OCCUR.

THE SAFEST WAY TO OBSERVE THE SUN IS BY PROJECTING ITS IMAGE ONTO A WHITE, SHIELDED, SCREEN .

John Chapman-Smith, a former Director of the Solar Section, has written a guide through the various ways to observe the Sun safely and record an observation, and it is important that you read and understand them fully before looking at the Sun. As new equipment is always being offered for sale the Director would be able to give you any further information you might like to have. To read John’s guide, use the 'Solar Observing Guide' at the top of the page.