Laser sights and how you've attached them

[Jemmo]

Hey guys I've been looking at green laser sights. They seem the go but how have you mounted them to a dobsonian? Pics would be hand if you've done it

[Jemmo]

Do they just replace your finder scope or can you use both?

[dannat]

can do both -the bracket quite often fits in the finder base, or you can drill new holes & mount side by side

[Jemmo]

How would you go about drilling holes. Do you need to take the mirror out or anything so it doesn't get dust on it or damaged. The only lasers I've really seen are rifle ones so dunno how you'd go with them

[barx1963]

Just be aware that green lasers over 1mw are illegal in Victoria as prohibited weapons and if you try to order them from overseas they stand a good chance of being confiscated. I would not use one in a built up area.

I had one for a while but have found a simple red dot finder is just as good and has no legal issues.

Malcolm

[dannat]

Adrian i was referring to the astro laser pointers -the telescopes suppliers have a bracket they mount into. see this link (http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/green-laser-pointers-international-supplier.htm)

when drilling holes tilt the tube slightly down below horizontal so any drilling tailings at the eyepiece end doesnt drop down the mirror

[Jemmo]

Ok so I might avoid a green one then. Will any old red laser do or need a certain power

[bojan]

To prevent contamination of mirrors with dust from drilling, simply ask somebody to help you with holding the vacuum cleaner inlet tube close to the drill..

[dannat]

most red laser's aren't strong enough to be visible at night -

[SteveInNZ]

I don't use mine with a bracket. I keep the pointer in a jacket pocket (which also keeps it warm) and then just rest it against the focuser mount, dovetail, finder rings, or anything else that's pointing in the same direction as the scope. It only takes one finger to hold it in position and press the button.

Steve.