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Laser pens as observation tool

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  • 16-05-2019 8:17pm
    #1
    rolion
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,362 ✭✭✭


    Hello,

    I remember a while ago,we used to have laser pens to point up above in the sky for objects.
    Have they been banned or are still in use !?

    Thanks.


Comments

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    #2
    ps200306
    Registered Users Posts: 1,589 ✭✭✭ps200306


    They aren't banned. Just don't point them at aeroplanes or people. A Class 2 laser pointer (1 mW) is safe and blink reflex is enough to protect the eyes even if directly exposed. However, astronomy buffs often use Class 3A (5 mW) which is hazardous if shone in the eyes, so not something you want kids messing around with. Anything beyond this is playing with fire (literally).


  • Options
    #3
    slade_x
    Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 1,423 Mod ✭✭✭✭slade_x


    rolion wrote: »
    Hello,

    I remember a while ago,we used to have laser pens to point up above in the sky for objects.
    Have they been banned or are still in use !?

    Thanks.

    Europe has restrictions on anything greater then 1mW output power

    https://www.laserpointersafety.com/news/news/other-news_files/tag-european-union.php#on

    https://www.laserpointersafety.com/news/news/other-news_files/tag-ireland.php#on


    There is a section in the "State Airports (Shannon Group) Act 2014" Part 7 covering "Prohibition on dazzling aircraft" but makes no specific mention of laser pointers but would definitely fall under the category as it is light

    http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2014/act/27/section/44/enacted/en/html


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    #4
    ThunderCat
    Closed Accounts Posts: 1,385 ✭✭✭ThunderCat


    I've only seen these powerful laser pointers in operation once but they are impressive. A park ranger was giving an astronomy talk at glacier point in Yosemite National Park while I was on my holliers. Seeing the constellations above Yosemite Valley is something that will stay with me for a very long time.


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