Red head lamp - modified from white LED?

[ManUtdFans]

I heard we should use red headlamp/headlight when go to outing session, not exactly know why?

However found red headlamp is a bit pricey, can I use this white LED and covered with RED jelly sheet:

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CREE-Q5-LED-camping-Headlamp-Headlight-Bike-Bicycle-flashing-torch-Light-N98B-/141140364137?pt=AU_Home_Decor&var=&hash=item20dc9f0b69

[RB]

Dim red light preserves your dark adaptation and is courteous to other astronomers around you too.

[Monstar]

Alan, I use an ordinary short rubber torch and have painted the glass with 3 layers of red nail varnish. Put a layer on, wait to dry and if it needs more add layers as you go. I found 3 coats best for me as it not only makes the light red but also pretty dim.

Cheers.

[ManUtdFans]

Ah...cool.
Will the heat of the light melt down the nail polish?

[julianh72]

Definitely no problem with a LED torch, as LED bulbs run cool. (Probably OK with an old-fashioned incandescent torch bulb too, as they don't put out too many watts either.)

If you're at all handy with soldering / electronics, you can also just remove the white LED and replace it with a red LED.

[barx1963]

I have found nail polish to not be "red" enough. Super cheap auto sell dim red headlamps that run of a single AA battery and is noticeably dimmer than most others.

Malcolm