Laser Sight for Telescope

Green lasers are nice for astronomy as the backscattering is intense enough to see as opposed to red light (red lasers). This creates a light-saber like visible beam in air. (Thanks to rayleigh scattering and the size of the molecules in our air: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayleigh_scattering)

This makes the use of a green laser quite useful for astronomers. I will mount one of these lasers on my scope to use as a laser sight for finding stars and deeper sky objects.

Essential tools you will need for this project:
1. Electric drill
2. Saw
3. Long screwdriver

Also one tip:
When working on your telescope, always take the mirrors out before doing anything. It just takes 1 screw + inclined tube + gravity and your mirror needs a funeral... (ok I'm exaggerating)


I first start by sawing off a piece of ABS plastic piping (about 1.5" outer diameter).

Then I add a hole to the body of my telescope. There was already one there but it wasn't large enough, so I used an electric drill to enlarge it.

 

Then I make two holes for mounting the tube, one smaller one for the mounting and a larger one to allow me room to use a screwdriver to screw it in.

 Then I make the rest of the holes and insert the screws in place at 60 degree angles. Note, you want one of the screws on the opposite side of the mounting screw, to allow space  for the mounting.
You'll also want one extra screw to push the button of your laser. (See picture)

Next, you'll want to add some electrical tape on the points of contact to avoid wear on your laser.

 And voila, the project is done, quite easily.

The scope from the back without the secondary mirror.

  

 

Scope with primary mirror re-installed and laser on.

Unfortunately, the weather is still pretty cloudy, so the post stops here :-|, but I'm crossing my fingers this will work!

Blog start

Starting a new blog to log all my attempts at Astro DIY measurements.