How to Buy Best Astronomy Laser Pointers

There's a wide variety of astronomy laser pointers on the market.

Laser pointers are a fun and usually safe way to study astronomy, and there's a wide variety of pointers on the market. Some types, however, stand out among the rest as far as quality and usefulness. The best way to go about buying a strong, handheld laser pointer is to conduct some research on the appropriate type for your needs and tastes, and to shop around to find the retailer that has the best price on the type you decide you want.

Things You'll Need

• Dark & Clear Night Sky
• optional: telescope

Instructions

1. Compare different shades of light beams. Of the multiple types of laser pointers on the market, two of the most popular are red beams and green beams. Green beams are more visible to the human eye and also considered more accurate for astronomical pointing. Although green beams traditionally have had a higher cost, their popularity has increased in recent years, corresponding with a price drop in 2008. Other shades, such as purple and blue, are also available, but don't have the visibility and history of accuracy that green beams do.

2. Read the specifications for each product. Look closely at the number of milliwatts the beam contains. The average laser pointer used for presentations is 5 mW. But for stargazing, the minimum effective power is 50 mW, which provides a beam that can be seen for more than a dozen miles. The maximum to consider buying would be 100 mW. Pointers with more than 100 mW in power can cause eye damage in people who look directly into the light.

3. Compare brands and prices. The cost of a powerful, astronomy-worthy handheld laser pointer can range from $20 to over $200. There's a wide variety of models available, as well as various wattages, as evident by the wide range in prices. Some laser beams come with features to consider, such as waterproof shells, carrying cases, keychains and even Swiss Army knives. The typical price of a standard 50 mW green-beam laser pointer with no extras is $25 to $35.

4. Shop at multiple retailers. After deciding the type of astronomy laser pointer you want, do some comparison shopping. Numerous online retailers make and sell astronomy laser pointers, including Amazon.com and Radio Shack. Buy checking with a few retailers, you may be able to purchase the type of pointer you want or need cheaper at once outlet than another.

Tips & Warnings

• Going in to this knowing what type of astronomy applications you conduct (be they research, or hobby) will give you a clear advantage to choose the best laser option for you. No sense in buying a 5mW laser pen that won't give you the visual control you prefer.

• If shopping online, only do so at the sites of retailers that are based in countries that have safety regulations for laser pointers. Laser pointers without the filters that are required in the U.S. and other countries can cause eye damage.

References

• Wayne Schmidt: Green Laser Pointer Comparison
• Scientific American: Can a Laser Pointer Damage the Eye?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish