[AZ-Observing] Messier Marathon and Laser Pointers

I posted earlier this week regarding the acceptability of using my laser
pointer at this weekend's Messier Marathon to help guide my 8 year old
daughter around the sky at her first star party.  There was subsequent
discussion about its affects on visual observing as well as
astrophotography.  I just returned from a bit of time in the backyard with
my wife, laser pointer and rich field telescope doing some satellite
watching and have arrived at the following conclusions regarding the laser
pointer and its use this weekend.
 

A couple of times this evening pointing out satellites with the pointer, the
beam crossed the FOV of the telescope as I was observing.  Based on this
experience, I have no doubt that the laser pointer would impact any
potential astrophotography, and could be unnerving to a visual observer as
well.  So here is my plan for the laser pointer this weekend.  Because it's
her first star party, and I want to help her wherever I can, it is my intent
to use the laser pointer where appropriate as we observe together in an
effort to make the experience as rewarding as possible for her.  Having said
that, I also understand that there are other nights when I can take her to
observe alone or in a smaller group than the Messier Marathon.  

 

As a result, if anyone has any objections to my use of the laser pointer,
speak now or forever hold your peace!!! ;-).  I'll respect anyone's wishes
if they think it inappropriate, or detracting from their own enjoyment of
the star party.  At any point between now and dawn on Sunday morning, if
there are objections, simply let me know and I'll happily discontinue the
use of the laser pointer until another time.  I want to make my daughter's
first night out with a telescope as enjoyable and easy as possible, but I
certainly don't want to infringe on anyone else's enjoyment in the process.

 

The last time my Obsession actually bounced photons to my eyepiece under a
truly dark sky was at the LAST Messier Marathon - so I'm looking forward to
the prospects for this weekend.  Hope to see all of you there.

 

Mike

 



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