Spec me: a laser pen

TheBigCheese

TheBigCheese

TheBigCheese

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6 Sep 2005
Posts
3,781
Hi guys

I've just found that a laptop + Stellarium + clear sky = absolutely ace!

So I'm after a laser pen for easily pointing out various night sky treats to others.

It doesn't need to be powerful, I'm not thinking of burning my name into wood, setting fire to the Earth, strapping it to a shark or any other silly things that people seem to do with them.

It's just for pointing at the sky...what would work best, red or green?

I know green is more powerful than red but safety is important as well, so if a red pen will do the job of a green one and is safer that sounds good.

I'm not going to buy from eBay as you never know what you'll get so if anyone has a recommended brand etc. that would be great :D

Many thanks in advance!
 
If you buy cheap you need to be careful of the infrared emissions that could cause eye damage.

Cheap Chinese green lasers come to mind.

I have a red laser for Airsoft but I only really use it for intimidation rather than pointing ay anything.
 
TheBigCheese said:
No no, not a dot, it's for beaming into the night sky for pointing out stars.
Click to expand...

It has to be green. Our eyes are far more sensitive with green, and it does show up clearly. No more than a 5mW is needed. I have a 5mW and its excellent for astronomy use. Be aware that these are banned at meetings, astro events and starparties. Dont forget to be extra careful, when you are dark adapted you pupils are wide open and its much easier to blind yourself (or others!) at night.
 
Many thanks for the posts :)

OK, green it is!

As I said I want to avoid eBay, and cheap Chinese versions...would you have any idea what a good make would be, and if possible recommend a good place to get one from?

Thanks!
 
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