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Orion Mars Observation Filter

3.0 (2 Reviews) Read Reviews Write Review
Brand Orion
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Reviews

3.0 (Based on 2 Reviews) 50% of reviewers recommended this product.
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    1. urban_astro

      urban_astro New Member

      Skill Level
      Unknown
      Time with Product
      Unknown
      User Notes:
      1329157260
      Feb 13, 2012

      2.0 Orion Mars Observation Filter

      Pros:

      Low price. Slightly increased contrast. Better for Moon and Venus(?).

      Cons:

      Dim view. Magenta overwhelms image. Better filters for Mars for about the same price.

      Comments:

      I actually purchased this at the end of Mars' 2009 apparition but didn't have the chance to try it. I have already had excellent results on Mars using the Baader Neodymium Moon & Skyglow filter reviewed elsewhere on this site.

      Upon trying it for the 2012 apparition on 6" and 8" reflectors, I was disappointed by the performance relative to the M & S filter. The Mars filter strongly dims the image, which doesn't help when you are pushing high magnification (which Mars virtually demands).

      The strong magenta tinting from the filter may or may not bother some (as there IS a slight increase in contrast), but there is no denying the falseness of the hue, a problem shared with typical color filters.

      I tried it with the waning gibbous Moon and found the effects of the filter rather pleasant with some increased contrast and decreased brightness. Brighter targets than Mars stand to benefit more than Mars itself.

      For Mars, the Baader Neodymium Moon & Skyglow filter is the one to get.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? No
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No
    2. kevinbozard

      kevinbozard New Member

      Skill Level
      Unknown
      Time with Product
      Unknown
      User Notes:
      1205667480
      Mar 16, 2008

      4.0 Orion Mars Observation Filter, 1.25"

      Pros:

      Increased contrast; Fully coated filter

      Cons:

      Changes are subtle; Recommended for experienced Mars observers

      Comments:

      I purchased this filter when others were trying it out, an no reviews had been written in regards to its performance. I took the chance and placed my order. Upon receipt of the filter I took it out and targeted Mars. I've always been able to see the polar ice cap, mare shadings, and cloud activity. But with the filter in place the subtle views are improved. Improved contrast brought out the polar caps, but substantially increased the surface markings. This filter is recommended for the serious Mars observers.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No
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