For many years, one of the biggest stumbling blocks I faced at star parties was the confusion that arose whenever I tried to show attendees the locations of notable stars and constellations or the whereabouts of the current telescopic target. Except for those standing directly behind me, few, if any, could see where I was pointing.
The laser pointer came to the rescue. Here is a small, inexpensive device whose bright green beam, when directed skyward, illuminates minute dust particles in the air. The result is what looks like a Star Wars light saber that seems to stretch all the way to the stars themselves. No sooner did I learn of this valuable tool than I ordered one for myself.
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