This Burning Out Of Sensors Through Pointing A Camera At The Sun

[Steve Smith]

I agree with your suggestion that the simpler lenses worked as there were fewer elements absorbing UV.I think zooms are a bit too complex and have more elements.

I have prime 200mm, 300mm and 500mm lenses which I will try when I get some sun.

It is actually out now in between clouds but I would rather try it around mid day with a cloudless sky.



Steve.

 

[sk66]

I agree with your suggestion that the simpler lenses worked as there were fewer elements absorbing UV.I think zooms are a bit too complex and have more elements.

I have prime 200mm, 300mm and 500mm lenses which I will try when I get some sun.

It is actually out now in between clouds but I would rather try it around mid day with a cloudless sky.



Steve.

I have a 400/2.8... but I was hesitant to hold it.

 

[sk66]

I set the 400 up on a tripod. Also retested the Zeiss due to sun being higher.

Nikon 400/2.8, ~135mm objective- ignition in ~3 sec.
Zeiss 85/1.4, 60mm objective- ignition also in ~ 3sec.

Looks like the tradeoff between objective diameter and aperture is about equal even though the 85mm is passing "more light" at f/1.4.

This result surprised me somewhat... it would take more refined testing to identify any potential difference between these setups and try to isolate the cause...

Edit to add:
I also tested the 400/2.8 +2x TC- no ignition in 30sec.