On Sat, 23 Dec 2006 09:02:00 -0500, "Fred Scharmann"
wrote:

Has anyone tried using a green laser pointer as a telescope pointing device?
It seems like it could be easier to use than any optical pointer.

Some people think so (especially those with back problems, who may have
difficulty lining up with a unit power finder like a Telrad). But you
are still talking about a low power pointing system. It will help you
get your scope close, but if you're star hopping you still need a high
power optical finder.

I am sure there must be drawbacks, since no one seems to use them as a
telescope pointer.

In group settings, they may cause problems. While handheld laser
pointers won't interfere with imaging, a laser on a scope can if that
scope is aimed at the same target somebody nearby is imaging. Also,
green laser pointers generally can't be left on for very long (1
minute) without showing a significant drop in intensity, and in some
cases damaging overheating internally.

_________________________________________________

Chris L Peterson
Cloudbait Observatory
http://www.cloudbait.com