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((short description|Handheld device that emits a laser beam))
((Use dmy dates|date=February 2017))
[[File:Laser Pointers.jpg|thumb|300px|Red (635&nbsp;nm), blueish violet (445&nbsp;nm), and green (520&nbsp;nm) laser pointers]]

A '''laser pointer''' or '''laser pen''' is a (typically battery-powered) handheld device that uses a  [[laser diode]] to emit a narrow low-power visible [[laser]] beam (i.e. [[Coherence (physics)|coherent]] [[light]]) to highlight something of interest with a small bright colored spot.

The small width of the beam and the low power of typical laser pointers make the beam itself invisible in a clean atmosphere, only showing a point of light when striking an opaque surface. Laser pointers can project a visible beam via scattering from dust particles or water droplets along the beam path. Higher-power and higher-frequency green or blue lasers may produce a beam visible even in clean air because of [[Rayleigh scattering]] from air molecules, especially when viewed in moderately-to-dimly lit conditions. The intensity of such scattering increases when these beams are viewed from angles near the beam axis. Such pointers, particularly in the green-light output range, are used as [[astronomical object]] pointers for teaching purposes.

Laser pointers make a potent signaling tool, even in daylight, and are able to produce a bright signal for potential search and rescue vehicles using an inexpensive, small and lightweight device of the type that could be routinely carried in an [[emergency kit]].

There are significant safety concerns with the use of laser pointers. Most jurisdictions have restrictions on lasers above 5&nbsp;[[Milliwatt|mW]]. If aimed at a person's eyes, laser pointers can cause temporary visual disturbances or even severe damage to vision. There are reports in the medical literature documenting permanent injury to the macula and the subsequent permanent loss of vision after laser light from a laser pointer was shone at a human's eyes.  In rare cases, a dot of light from a red laser pointer may be thought to be due to a [[Laser sight|laser gunsight]].<ref name=princeton/> When pointed at aircraft at night, laser pointers may dazzle and distract pilots, and increasingly strict laws have been passed to ban this.

The low-cost availability of [[infrared]] (IR) diode laser modules of up to 1000&nbsp;mW (1&nbsp;[[watt]]) output has created a generation of IR-pumped, [[Second-harmonic generation|frequency doubled]], green, blue, and violet [[diode-pumped solid-state laser]] pointers with visible power up to 300&nbsp;mW. Because the invisible IR component in the beams of these visible lasers is difficult to filter out, and also because filtering it contributes extra heat which is difficult to dissipate in a small pocket "laser pointer" package, it is often left as a beam component in cheaper high-power pointers. This invisible IR component causes a degree of extra potential hazard in these devices when pointed at nearby objects and people.
((TOCLIMIT|2))

==Colors and wavelengths==
Early laser pointers were [[helium–neon laser|helium–neon (HeNe) gas lasers]] and generated laser radiation at 633 [[nanometer]]s (nm), usually designed to produce a laser beam with an output power under 1 milliwatt (mW). The least expensive laser pointers use a deep-red [[laser diode]] near the 650&nbsp;nm [[wavelength]]. Slightly more expensive ones use a red-orange 635&nbsp;nm diode, more easily visible because of the [[Color vision|greater sensitivity of the human eye]] at 635&nbsp;nm. Other colors are possible too, with the 532&nbsp;nm green laser being the most common alternative. Yellow-orange laser pointers, at 593.5&nbsp;nm, later became available. In September 2005 handheld blue laser pointers at 473&nbsp;nm became available. In early 2010 "[[Blu-ray]]" (actually violet) laser pointers at 405&nbsp;nm went on sale.

The apparent brightness of a spot from a laser beam depends on the optical power of the laser, the reflectivity of the surface, and the chromatic response of the [[human eye]]. For the same optical power, green laser light will seem brighter than other colors, because the human eye is most sensitive at low light levels in the green region of the spectrum (wavelength 520–570&nbsp;nm). Sensitivity decreases for longer (redder) and shorter (bluer) wavelengths. Additionally, the beam's brightness can be influenced by Rayleigh scattering, as shorter wavelengths such as blue and violet light are scattered more readily in the atmosphere making the beam more visible in the air.<ref>[https://405nm.com/laser-beam-and-dot-relative-brightness-comparison/ Laser Beam and Dot Relative Brightness Comparison by Wavelength]. 405nm.com. Retrieved on 8 April 2023.</ref>

The output power of a laser pointer is usually stated in milliwatts (mW). In the U.S., lasers are classified by the [[American National Standards Institute]]<ref>''ANSI classification scheme'' (ANSI Z136.1–1993, American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers).</ref> and [[Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA)—see [[Laser safety#Classification]] for details. Visible laser pointers (400–700&nbsp;nm) operating at less than 1&nbsp;mW power are Class 2 or II, and visible laser pointers operating with 1–5&nbsp;mW power are Class 3A or IIIa. Class 3B or IIIb lasers generate between 5 and 500&nbsp;mW; Class 4 or IV lasers generate more than 500&nbsp;mW. The US FDA [[Code of Federal Regulations]] stipulates that "demonstration laser products" such as pointers must comply with applicable requirements for Class I, II, IIIA, IIIB, or IV devices.<ref>[http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?FR=1040.11 FDA Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, Subchapter J: Radiological Health, PART 1040 – PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR LIGHT-EMITTING PRODUCTS]. Accessdata.fda.gov. Retrieved on 15 October 2011.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
!Color
!Wavelength(s)
|-
| Red
| 638&nbsp;nm,  650&nbsp;nm, 670&nbsp;nm
|-
| Orange
| 593&nbsp;nm
|-
| Yellow
| 589&nbsp;nm, 593&nbsp;nm
|-
| Green
| 532&nbsp;nm, 515/520&nbsp;nm
|-
| Blue
| 450&nbsp;nm, 473&nbsp;nm, 488&nbsp;nm
|-
| Violet
| 405&nbsp;nm
|}

===Red===
These are the simplest pointers, as laser diodes are available in these wavelengths. The pointer is most common and mostly low-powered.

The first red laser pointers released in the early 1980s were large, unwieldy devices that sold for hundreds of dollars.<ref>((cite journal|title=Product Guide|date=November 1981|journal=[[Popular Science]]))</ref> Today, they are much smaller and less expensive. The most common wavelengths are ca. 638 and 650&nbsp;nm.

===Green===
[[File:Greenlasertrails.jpg|thumb|Trails by a 15 mW green laser pointer in a time exposure of a living room at night]]
Green laser pointers<ref>[http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserpic/glpdpics.htm Sam's Laser FAQ: Dissection of Green Laser Pointer] ((Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522190301/http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserpic/glpdpics.htm |date=22 May 2013 )). repairfaq.org</ref> appeared on the market around 2000 and are the most common type of DPSS lasers (also called ''diode-pumped solid-state frequency-doubled'', DPSSFD). They are more complex than standard red laser pointers, because [[laser diode]]s are not commonly available in this wavelength range. The green light is generated through a multi-step process, usually beginning with a high-power (typically 100–300&nbsp;mW) [[infrared]] [[aluminium gallium arsenide]] (AlGaAs) laser diode operating at 808&nbsp;nm. The 808&nbsp;nm light [[laser pumping|pumps]] a neodymium doped crystal, usually [[Nd:YVO4|neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate]] (Nd:YVO<sub>4</sub>) or [[yttrium aluminium garnet#Nd:YAG|neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet]] (Nd:YAG), or, less commonly, [[neodymium-doped yttrium lithium fluoride]] (Nd:YLF)), which lases deeper in the infrared at 1064&nbsp;nm. This lasing action is due to an electronic transition in the fluorescent [[neodymium]] ion, Nd(III), which is present in all of these crystals.

Some green lasers operate in pulse or quasi-continuous wave (QCW) mode to reduce cooling problems and prolong battery life.

An announcement in 2009<ref>[https://arstechnica.com/science/news/2009/07/green-diode-lasers-a-big-breakthrough-for-laser-display-tech.ars Green diode lasers a big breakthrough for laser-display tech] (i-micronews.com via arstechnica.com).</ref> of a direct green laser (which does not require doubling) promises much higher efficiencies and could foster the development of new color video projectors.

In 2012, [[Nichia]]<ref>[http://www.nichia.co.jp/en/product/laser.html LASER Diode-NICHIA CORPORATION]. nichia.co.jp</ref> and [[OSRAM]]<ref>[http://www.osram-os.com/osram_os/en/products/product-catalog/laser-diodes/visible-laser/green-laser/index.jsp Green Laser, Visible Laser – OSRAM Opto Semiconductors]. osram-os.com</ref> developed and manufactured merchant high-power green laser diodes (515/520&nbsp;nm), which can emit green laser directly.

Because even a low-powered green laser is visible at night through [[Rayleigh scattering]] from air molecules, this type of pointer is used by astronomers to easily point out stars and constellations. Green laser pointers can come in a variety of different output powers. The 5&nbsp;mW green laser pointers (classes II and IIIa) are the safest to use, and anything more powerful is usually not necessary for pointing purposes, since the beam is still visible in dark lighting conditions.

===Blue===
((Main|Blue laser))
Blue laser pointers in specific wavelengths such as 473&nbsp;nm usually have the same basic construction as DPSS green lasers. In 2006 many factories began production of blue laser modules for mass-storage devices, and these were used in laser pointers too. These were DPSS-type frequency-doubled devices. They most commonly emit a beam at 473&nbsp;nm, which is produced by frequency doubling of 946&nbsp;nm laser radiation from a diode-pumped [[Nd:YAG]] or [[Nd:YVO4]] crystal (Nd-doped crystals usually produce a principal wavelength of 1064&nbsp;nm, but with the proper reflective coating mirrors can be also made to lase at other "higher harmonic" non-principal neodymium wavelengths). For high output power, [[beta barium borate|BBO]] crystals are used as frequency doublers; for lower powers, [[potassium titanyl phosphate|KTP]] is used. The Japanese company [[Nichia]] controlled 80% of the blue-laser-diode market in 2006.<ref>((cite news| url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2006/sep/14/newmedia.media|work=The Guardian|location=London|title=Is the end in sight for Sony's laser blues?|date=14 September 2006|access-date=7 May 2010|first=Jane|last=Qiu|author-link=Jane Qiu))</ref>

Some vendors are now selling collimated diode blue laser pointers with measured powers exceeding 1,500&nbsp;mW. However, since the claimed power of "laser pointer" products also includes the IR power (in DPSS technology only) still present in the beam (for reasons discussed below), comparisons on the basis of strictly visual-blue components from DPSS-type lasers remain problematic, and the information is often not available. Because of the higher neodymium harmonic used, and the lower efficiency of frequency-doubling conversion, the fraction of IR power converted to 473&nbsp;nm blue laser light in optimally configured DPSS modules is typically 10–13%, about half that typical for green lasers (20–30%).((citation needed|date=June 2013))

Lasers emitting a violet light beam at 405&nbsp;nm may be constructed with GaN ([[gallium nitride]]) semiconductors. This is close to ultraviolet, bordering on the very extreme of human vision, and can cause bright blue [[fluorescence]], and thus a blue rather than violet spot, on many white surfaces, including white clothing, white paper, and projection screens, due to the widespread use of [[optical brightener]]s in the manufacture of products intended to appear brilliantly ((nowrap|white((hsp))((mdash))))((hsp))the brighteners are chemical compounds that absorb light in the violet (and [[ultraviolet]]) region of the [[electromagnetic spectrum]] and re-emit light in the blue region by fluorescence. On ordinary non-fluorescent materials, and also on fog or dust, the color appears as a shade of deep violet that cannot be reproduced on monitors and print. A GaN laser emits 405&nbsp;nm directly without a frequency doubler, eliminating the possibility of accidental [[#Infrared hazards of DPSS laser pointers|dangerous infrared emission]]. These laser diodes are mass-produced for the reading and writing of data in [[Blu-ray]] drives (although the light emitted by the diodes is not blue, but distinctly violet). In mid-to-late 2011, 405&nbsp;nm blue-violet laser diode modules with an optical power of 250&nbsp;mW, based on GaN violet laser diodes made for Blu-ray disc readers, had reached the market from Chinese sources for prices of about US$60 including delivery.<ref>In September 2011, GaN diode laser modules capable of operating at 250mW (or 300mW pulse) with a heatsink were offered on eBay in the Industrial Lasers category at around US$60.</ref>

==Applications==

===Pointing===
[[File:Green-lased palm tree (crop).jpg|thumb|A 5 mW green laser pointer directed at a [[palm tree]] at night.]]

Laser pointers are often used in educational and business [[presentation]]s and visual demonstrations as an eye-catching pointing device. Laser pointers enhance verbal guidance given to students during surgery. The suggested mechanism of explanation is that the technology enables more precise guidance of location and identification of anatomic structures.<ref>((cite journal |last1=Badman |first1=Märit |last2=Höglund |first2=Katja |last3=Höglund |first3=Odd V. |title=Student Perceptions of the Use of a Laser Pointer for Intra-Operative Guidance in Feline Castration |journal=[[Journal of Veterinary Medical Education]] |volume=43 |issue=2 |pages=1–3 |doi=10.3138/jvme.0515-084r2 |pmid=27128854 |year=2016 |doi-access=free ))</ref>

Red laser pointers can be used in almost any indoor or low-light situation where pointing out details by hand may be inconvenient, such as in [[construction]] work or interior decorating. Green laser pointers can be used for similar purposes as well as outdoors in daylight or for longer distances.

Laser pointers are used in a wide range of applications. Green laser pointers can also be used for [[amateur astronomy]].<ref>((cite journal |last1=Bará |first1=S |last2=Robles |first2=M |last3=Tejelo |first3=I |last4=Marzoa |first4=RI |last5=González |first5=H |title=Green laser pointers for visual astronomy: how much power is enough? |journal=[[Optometry and Vision Science]] |volume=87 |issue=2 |pages=140–4 |doi=10.1097/OPX.0b013e3181cc8d8f  |pmid=20035242|year=2010 |s2cid=5614966 ))</ref> Green lasers are visible at night due to [[Rayleigh scattering]] and airborne dust,<ref>((cite book |last1=Metzger |first1=Robert M. |title=The Physical Chemist's Toolbox |date=2012 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons |isbn=978-0-470-88925-1 |page=207 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vhump_5PsaoC&q=green+laser+rayleigh+scattering&pg=PA207 |access-date=15 June 2016))</ref> allowing someone to point out individual stars to others nearby. Also, these green laser pointers are commonly used by astronomers worldwide at [[Star party|star parties]] or for conducting lectures in astronomy. Astronomy laser pointers are also commonly mounted on telescopes in order to align the telescope to a specific star or location. Laser alignment is much easier than aligning through using the eyepiece.

===Industrial and research use===
[[File:Laser-Level.jpg|thumb|Laser level used in construction.]]
Laser pointers are used in industry. For instance, construction companies may use high quality laser pointers to enhance the accuracy of showing specific distances, while working on large-scale projects. They have proven to be useful in this type of business because of their accuracy, which made them significant time-savers. What is essentially a laser pointer may be built into an [[infrared thermometer]] to identify where it is pointing, or be part of a [[laser level]] or other apparatus.

They may also be helpful in [[scientific research]] in fields such as [[photonics]], [[chemistry]], [[physics]], and [[medicine]].

Laser pointers are used in [[robotics]], for example, for [[laser guidance]] to direct the robot to a goal position by means of a laser beam, i.e. showing goal positions to the robot optically instead of communicating them numerically. This intuitive interface simplifies directing the robot while visual [[feedback]] improves the positioning accuracy and allows for implicit localization.<ref name=Paromtchik2006>
((cite journal
|last1=Paromtchik |first1=Igor
|title= Optical Guidance Method for Robots Capable of Vision and Communication
|journal=Robotics and Autonomous Systems
|publisher=Elsevier
|year=2006
|volume=54|issue=6|pages=461–471
|url=https://app.box.com/s/h7mt5efgolt7isfghu71
|format=PDF
|doi=10.1016/j.robot.2006.02.005)) 
</ref><ref name=Paromtchik2002>
((cite web 
|title=Mobile Robot Guidance by Laser Pointer
| website=[[YouTube]] |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PgL6Npkmeg
 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211212/2PgL6Npkmeg| archive-date=2021-12-12 |url-status=live|format=Video
|access-date=3 May 2015))((cbignore)) 
</ref>

===Leisure and entertainment===
[[Entertainment]] is one of the other applications that has been found for lasers. Clubs, parties and outdoor concerts may use high-power lasers, with safety precautions, as a spectacle. [[Laser lighting display|Laser shows]] are often extravagant, using [[Lens (optics)|lenses]], [[mirror]]s and [[fog]].

Laser pointers are a popular plaything for pets (e.g. [[cats]], [[ferrets]] and [[dogs]]) whose natural predatory instincts are triggered by the moving laser and will chase it and/or unsuccessfully try to catch it as much as possible,<ref>((cite web |last1=Hyman |first1=Ira | author-link = Ira Hyman |title=It's Alive! Why Cats Love Laser Pointers |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mental-mishaps/201101/its-alive-why-cats-love-laser-pointers |website=[[Psychology Today]] |date=January 11, 2011 |access-date=June 29, 2019 ))</ref> providing entertainment for the pet owner as well.

However, laser ''pointers'' have few applications beyond actual pointing in the wider entertainment industry, and many venues ban entry to those in possession of pointers as a potential hazard. Very occasionally laser gloves, which are sometimes mistaken for pointers, are seen being worn by professional dancers on stage at shows. Unlike pointers, these usually produce low-power highly divergent beams to ensure eye safety. Laser pointers have been used as props by magicians during magic shows.

As an example of the potential dangers of laser pointers brought in by audience members, at the [[Tomorrow Land Festival]] in Belgium in 2009, laser pointers brought in by members of the audience of 200&nbsp;mW or greater were found to be the cause of eye damage suffered by several other members of the audience according to reports about the incident filed on the ILDA ([[International Laser Display Association]]'s) Web site.<ref>[http://www.laserist.org/2009-07_Belgian-incident.htm laserist.org]. laserist.org. Retrieved on 15 October 2011.</ref> The report says that the incident was investigated by several independent authorities, including the Belgium police, and that those authorities concluded that pointers brought in by the audience were the cause of the injuries.

Laser pointers can be used in [[hiking]] or [[outdoor activities]]. It can be used as a rescue signal in emergencies which is visible to aircraft and other parties, during both day and night conditions, at extreme distances. For example, during the night in August 2010 two men and a boy were rescued from marshland after their red laser pen was spotted by rescue teams.<ref>[http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=415061&SubjectId=12 UK Marine and Coastguard Agency] ((webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111229133933/http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=415061&SubjectId=12 |date=29 December 2011 )). Nds.coi.gov.uk. Retrieved on 15 October 2011.</ref>

===Weapons systems===
Accurately aligned laser pointers are used as [[Laser sight#Laser sight|laser gunsights]] to aim a [[firearm]].

Some militaries use lasers to mark targets at night for aircraft. This is done to ensure that "friendly" and "enemy" targets are not mistaken. A friendly target may wear an IR emitting device that is only visible to those utilizing night vision (such as pilots). To pinpoint the exact location of an enemy combatant, they would simply illuminate the target with a laser beam detectable by the attacking aircraft. This can be one of the most accurate ways of marking targets.

==Hazards and risks==

===Incorrect power rating===
((Main|Laser safety|Lasers and aviation safety))
National Institute of Standards and Technology tests<ref>((cite journal|url=https://www.nist.gov/pml/div686/pointer-032013.cfm |title=NIST Tests Underscore Potential Hazards of Green Laser Pointers |journal=NIST |date=20 March 2013 |publisher=Nist.gov |access-date=22 August 2014))</ref> conducted on laser pointers labeled as Class IIIa or 3R in 2013 showed that about half of them emitted power at twice the Class limit, making their correct designation Class IIIb – more hazardous than Class IIIa.  
The highest measured power output was 66.5 milliwatts; more than 10 times the limit.  Green laser light is generated from an infrared laser beam, which should be confined
within the laser housing; however, more than 75% of the devices tested were found to emit infrared light in excess of the limit.

===Malicious use===
((Main|Laser safety|Lasers and aviation safety))
Laser pointers, with their very long range, are often maliciously shone at people to distract or annoy them, or for fun. This is considered particularly hazardous in the case of aircraft pilots, who may be dazzled or distracted at critical times.

According to an MSNBC report there were over 2,836 incidents logged in the US by the FAA in 2010.<ref>((cite web|url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41156165/ns/travel-news/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121223113/http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41156165/ns/travel-news/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 January 2011 |title=FAA: Laser incidents soar, threaten planes - Travel - News &#124; NBC News |publisher=MSNBC |date=20 January 2011 |access-date=8 November 2016))</ref> Illumination by handheld green lasers is particularly serious, as the wavelength (532&nbsp;nm) is near peak sensitivity of the dark-adapted eye and may appear to be 35 times brighter than a red laser of identical power output.<ref name="faagl">((cite web| last =Nakagawara| first =Van B., DO| url =http://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/laser_hazards_web.pdf| title =Laser Hazards in Navigable Airspace| publisher =FAA| access-date =15 December 2011| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20111216083826/http://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/laser_hazards_web.pdf| archive-date =16 December 2011| url-status =dead| df =dmy-all))</ref>

Irresponsible use of laser pointers is often frowned upon by members of the laser projector community who fear that their misuse may result in legislation affecting lasers designed to be placed within projectors and used within the entertainment industry. Others involved in activities where dazzling or distraction are dangerous are also a concern.

Another distressing and potentially dangerous misuse of laser pointers is to use them when the dot may reasonably be mistaken for that of a laser gun sight. Armed [[police]] have drawn their weapons in such circumstances.<ref name=princeton/>

===Eye injury===
The output of laser pointers available to the general public is limited (and varies by country) in order to prevent accidental damage to the [[retina]] of [[human eye]]s. The U.K. [[Health Protection Agency]] recommended that "laser pointers generally available to the public should be restricted to less than 1 milliwatt as no injuries [like the one reported below to have caused retinal damage] have been reported at this power".<ref name=damage1>((cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/10266498.stm |title=Laser pointers 'pose danger to eyes' |work=BBC News |date=9 June 2010))</ref><ref name=damage2>[http://www.bmj.com/content/340/bmj.c2982.full Maculopathy from handheld green diode laser pointer], Kimia Ziahosseini, et a., BMJ 2010;340:c2982</ref> In the U.S., regulatory authorities allow lasers up to 5&nbsp;mW.

Studies have found that even low-power laser beams of not more than 5&nbsp;mW can cause permanent retinal damage if gazed at for several seconds; however, the eye's [[blink reflex]] must be intentionally overcome to make this occur. Such laser pointers have reportedly caused [[afterimage]]s, [[flash blindness]] and [[Glare (vision)|glare]],<ref name=princeton>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110809020724/http://web.princeton.edu/sites/ehs/LabPage/laserpointersafety.htm Princeton University: Safety Recommendations for Laser Pointers]. Web.princeton.edu. Retrieved on 15 October 2011.</ref> but not permanent damage, and are generally [[laser safety|safe]] when used as intended.

A high-powered green laser pointer bought over the [[Internet]] was reported in 2010 to have caused a decrease of [[visual acuity]] from 6/6 to 6/12 (20/20 to 20/40); after two months acuity recovered to 6/6, but some retinal damage remained.<ref name=damage1/><ref name=damage2/> The US FDA issued a warning after two [[anecdotal report]]s it received of eye injury from laser pointers.<ref name=princeton/>

Laser pointers available for purchase online can be capable of significantly higher power output than the pointers typically available in stores. Dubbed "Burning Lasers", these are designed to burn through light plastics and paper, and can have very similar external appearances to their low-power counterparts.<ref name="NEJM">((cite journal|title=Retinal Injuries from a Handheld Laser Pointer |doi=10.1056/NEJMc1005818|journal= N Engl J Med |volume= 363|issue=11|pages=1089–1091|year=2010|last1=Wyrsch|first1=Stefan|last2=Baenninger|first2=Philipp B.|last3=Schmid|first3=Martin K.|pmid=20825327|doi-access=free))</ref><ref name="Bloomberg">Gordon, Serena (8 September 2010) [http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/642932.html Kids Playing With Laser Pointers May Be Aiming for Eye Trouble; Teen boy damages retina with Internet-purchased 'toy,' doctors say] ((webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120416060942/http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/642932.html |date=16 April 2012 )). Bloomberg BusinessWeek</ref> Because of their high power, many online retailers have warned high-power laser pointer users not to point them at humans or animals.

Studies in the early twenty-first century found that the risk to the human eye from accidental exposure to light from commercially available class IIIa laser pointers having powers up to 5&nbsp;mW seemed rather small; however, prolonged viewing, such as deliberate staring into the beam for 10 or more seconds, can cause damage.<ref>((cite journal|title=Assessment of Alleged Retinal Laser Injuries|journal=Arch Ophthalmol|year=2004|volume= 122|pages= 1210–1217|issue=8|doi=10.1001/archopht.122.8.1210|pmid=15302664|last1=Mainster|first1=M. A.|last2=Stuck|first2=B. E.|last3=Brown Jr|first3=J|doi-access=))</ref><ref>((cite journal|title=Retinopathy From a Green Laser Pointer: a Clinicopathologic Study |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |year=2005 |volume=123 |pages=629–633 |pmid=15883281|doi=10.1001/archopht.123.5.629|issue=5|last1=Robertson |first1=D. M. |last2=McLaren |first2=J. W. |last3=Salomao |first3=D. R. |last4=Link |first4=T. P. |doi-access=free ))</ref><ref>((cite journal|author=Sliney DH, Dennis JE|title=Safety concerns about laser pointers|journal= J. Laser Appl. |year=1994|volume=6|issue=3|pages=159–164|doi=10.2351/1.4745352|bibcode=1994JLasA...6..159S))</ref><ref>((cite journal |title=Assessment of Alleged Retinal Laser Injuries |pmid=15302664 |journal=Arch Ophthalmol |year=2004 |volume=122 |pages=1210–1217|doi=10.1001/archopht.122.8.1210|issue=8|last1=Mainster |first1=M. A. |last2=Stuck |first2=B. E. |last3=Brown Jr |first3=J |doi-access= ))</ref>

The UK Health Protection Agency warns against the higher-power typically green laser pointers available over the Internet, with power output of up to a few hundred milliwatts, as "extremely dangerous and not suitable for sale to the public."<ref>[http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAweb&HPAwebStandard/HPAweb_C/1195733794576 UK Health Protection Agency Information Sheet on Laser Pointers] ((webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613070927/http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAweb%26HPAwebStandard/HPAweb_C/1195733794576 |date=13 June 2008 )). Hpa.org.uk (21 May 2010). Retrieved on 2011-10-15.</ref>

===Infrared hazards of DPSS laser pointers===
((More citations needed|date=December 2018))
Lasers classified as ''pointers'' are intended to have outputs less than 5&nbsp;mW total power ([[Laser safety|Class 3R]]). At such power levels, an IR filter for a DPSS laser may not be required as the infrared (IR) output is relatively low and the brightness of the visible wavelength of the laser will cause the eye to react (blink reflex). However, higher-powered (> 5&nbsp;mW) [[DPSS]]-type laser pointers have recently become available, usually through sources that do not follow laser safety [[Laser safety#Regulations|regulations]] for laser packaging and labeling. These higher-powered lasers are often packaged in the same pointer-style housings as regular laser pointers, and usually lack the IR filters found in professional high-powered DPSS lasers, because of costs and additional efforts needed to accommodate them.<ref>((Cite journal|last1=Galang|first1=Jemellie|last2=Restelli|first2=Alessandro|last3=Hagley|first3=Edward W.|last4=Clark|first4=Charles W.|date=2010-08-02|title=A Green Laser Pointer Hazard|journal=NIST |arxiv=1008.1452|url=https://www.nist.gov/publications/green-laser-pointer-hazard|language=en))</ref>

Though the IR from a DPSS laser is less collimated, the typical [[neodymium laser|neodymium-doped crystals]] in such lasers do produce a true IR laser beam. The eye will usually react to the higher-powered visible light; however, in higher power DPSS lasers the IR laser output can be significant. What poses a special hazard for this unfiltered IR output is its presence in conjunction with laser safety goggles designed to only block the visible wavelengths of the laser. Red goggles, for example, will block most green light from entering the eyes, but will pass IR light. The reduced light behind the goggles may also cause the pupils to dilate, increasing the hazard to the invisible IR light. Dual-frequency so-called YAG laser eyewear is significantly more expensive than single frequency laser eyewear, and is often not supplied with unfiltered DPSS pointer style lasers, which output 1064&nbsp;nm IR laser light as well. These potentially hazardous lasers produce little or no visible beam when shone through the eyewear supplied with them, yet their IR-laser output can still be easily seen when viewed with an IR-sensitive video camera.

In addition to the safety hazards of unfiltered IR from DPSS lasers, the IR component may be inclusive of total output figures in some laser pointers.

Though green (532&nbsp;nm) lasers are most common, IR filtering problems may also exist in other DPSS lasers, such as DPSS red (671&nbsp;nm), yellow (589&nbsp;nm) and blue (473&nbsp;nm) lasers. These DPSS laser wavelengths are usually more exotic, more expensive, and generally manufactured with higher quality components, including filters, unless they are put into laser pointer style pocket-pen packages. Most red (635&nbsp;nm, 660&nbsp;nm), violet (405&nbsp;nm) and darker blue (445&nbsp;nm) lasers are generally built using dedicated laser diodes at the output frequency, not as DPSS lasers. These diode-based visible lasers do not produce IR light.

==Regulations and misuse==
Laser pointer users should not point laser beams at aircraft, moving vehicles, or towards strangers.<ref>[https://www.laserpointersafety.com/laser-hazards_aircraft/laser-hazards_aircraft.html Laser Pointer Safety - NEVER aim laser pointers at aircraft]</ref> Since laser pointers became readily available, they have been misused, leading to the development of laws and regulations specifically addressing use of such lasers. Their very long range makes it difficult to find the source of a laser spot. In some circumstances they make people fear they are being targeted by weapons, as they are indistinguishable from dot type laser reticles. The very bright, small spot makes it possible to dazzle and distract drivers and aircraft pilots, and they can be dangerous to sight if aimed at the eyes.

In 1998, an audience member shone a laser at [[Kiss (band)|Kiss]] drummer [[Peter Criss]]'s eyes while the band was performing "[[Beth (song)|Beth]]". After performing the song, Criss nearly stormed off the stage, and lead singer [[Paul Stanley]] ripped into whoever had been manipulating the laser light: 
 	
((Blockquote|text=In every crowd, there's one or two people who don't belong [...] Now I know you want to [take] it to school tomorrow when you go to sixth grade, but [you should have left] it at home [before coming] to the show.|sign=[[Paul Stanley]]|source=<ref>((cite news|title=Laser Pointer Irks Kiss|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2002&dat=19981124&id=CQFWAAAAIBAJ&pg=4614,6529730&hl=en|access-date=21 March 2015|publisher=Beaver County Times|date=24 November 1998))</ref><ref>((cite news|last1=Chapman|first1=Francesca|title=Kiss Drummer Sees Red, Rips Dimwit With Laser Pointer|url=http://articles.philly.com/1998-11-24/news/25732484_1_laser-pointer-jerry-hall-chet-baker|access-date=21 March 2015|publisher=Philly.com|date=24 November 1998))</ref>))

According to FIFA stadium safety and security regulations, laser pointers are prohibited items at stadiums during [[FIFA]] [[association football|football]] tournaments and matches.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20130516223844/http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/51/53/98/safetyregulations%5fe.pdf FIFA Stadium Safety and Security Regulations] — see page 96, "g"</ref> They are also prohibited in matches and competitions organised by [[UEFA]].<ref>[http://www.uefa.org/MultimediaFiles/Download/Regulations/uefaorg/UEFACompDisCases/02/11/23/49/2112349_DOWNLOAD.pdf UEFA Disciplinatory Regulations] — see page 9, "2.d"</ref> In 2008 laser pointers were aimed at players' eyes in a number of sport matches worldwide. [[Olympique Lyonnais]] was fined by UEFA because of a laser pointer beam aimed by a Lyon fan at [[Cristiano Ronaldo]].<ref>[http://blog.wired.com/defense/2008/03/laser-zap-leads.html – Laser Zap Leads to Soccer Fine]. Blog.wired.com (22 March 2008). Retrieved on 2011-10-15.</ref> In a [[FIFA World Cup|World Cup]] final qualifier match held in [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] between the home team and the [[South Korea]]n team, South Korean goalkeeper [[Lee Woon-Jae]] was hit in the eye with a green laser beam.<ref>[https://archive.today/20120804063137/http://www.kfa.or.kr/news/news/sview.asp?g_gubun=2&g_conid=2008112084026 kfa.or.kr/sportalkorea – 사우디 관중, 이운재에 레이저 포인터 공격 (includes a photograph showing a laser beam shining upon the goalkeeper's face)]</ref> At the [[2014 World Cup]] during the final [[2014 FIFA World Cup Group H#Algeria vs Russia|group stage match]] between [[Algeria national football team|Algeria]] and [[Russia national football team|Russia]] a green laser beam was directed on the face of Russian goalkeeper [[Igor Akinfeev]]. After the match the [[Algerian Football Federation]] was fined [[Swiss franc|CHF]]50,000 (approx. [[Pound sterling|£]]33,000/[[Euro|€]]41,100/[[United States dollar|US$]]56,200) by FIFA for the use of lasers and other violations of the rules by Algerian fans at the stadium.<ref>((cite news|first=Simon|last=Evans|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/us-soccer-world-alg-lasers-fifa-idINKBN0F52E220140630|title=Algeria zapped with FIFA fine over lasers|publisher=Reuters|date=1 July 2014|access-date=2 July 2014))</ref> During a football match in Athens between  [[Greece national football team|Greece]] and [[Republic of Ireland national football team|Ireland]] on 16 June 2023, Greek supporters were asked repeatedly over the public address system to stop shining laser beams at the Irish footballers.<ref>[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2023/0616/1389602-irelands-greek-odyssey-ends-in-disappointing-defeat/ Ireland's Greek odyssey ends in disappointing defeat] RTÉ Sport, 23-06-16.</ref>

In 2009 police in the [[United Kingdom]] began tracking the sources of lasers being shone at helicopters at night, logging the source using [[GPS]], using [[thermal imaging]] cameras to see the suspect, and even the warm pointer if discarded, and calling in police dog teams. As of 2010 the penalty could be five years' imprisonment.<ref>((cite news|last=Symonds|first=Tom|title=Police fight back on laser threat|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7990013.stm|access-date=12 September 2010|newspaper=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=8 April 2009))</ref>

Despite legislation limiting the output of laser pointers in some countries, higher-power devices are currently produced in other regions and are frequently imported by customers who purchase them directly via Internet mail order. The legality of such transactions is not always clear; typically, the lasers are sold as research or [[Original equipment manufacturer|OEM]] devices (which are not subject to the same power restrictions), with a disclaimer that they are not to be used as pointers. DIY videos are also often posted on Internet video sharing sites like [[YouTube]] which explain how to make a high-power laser pointer using the diode from an optical disc burner. As the popularity of these devices increased, manufacturers began manufacturing similar high-powered pointers. Warnings have been published on the dangers of such high-powered lasers.<ref>[https://www.fda.gov/cdrh/radhealth/products/internetlasers.html US FDA: Consumer Safety Alert: Internet Sales of Laser Products]. Fda.gov (6 September 2011). Retrieved on 2011-10-15.</ref> Despite the disclaimers, such lasers are frequently sold in packaging resembling that for laser pointers. Lasers of this type may not include [[Laser safety|safety features]] sometimes found on laser modules sold for research purposes.

There have been many incidents regarding, in particular, aircraft, and the authorities in many countries take them extremely seriously. Many people have been convicted and sentenced, sometimes to several years' imprisonment.<ref>[http://www.laserpointersafety.com/news/news/aviation-incidents_files/category-fines-0026-jail.php News of aviation-related incidents, arrests, etc]. Laser Pointer Safety. Retrieved on 15 October 2011.</ref>

===Australia===
In April 2008, citing a series of coordinated attacks on passenger jets in [[Sydney]], the Australian government announced that it would restrict the sale and importation of certain laser items. The government had yet to determine which classes of laser pointers to ban.<ref>((cite web |url = http://news.smh.com.au/laser-pointers-restricted-after-attacks/20080406-240f.html |title = Laser pointers restricted after attacks |access-date = 6 April 2008 |date = 6 April 2008 |publisher = [[Sydney Morning Herald]] |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080411063650/http://news.smh.com.au/laser-pointers-restricted-after-attacks/20080406-240f.html |archive-date = 11 April 2008 |df = dmy-all ))</ref> After some debate, the government voted to ban importation of lasers that emit a beam stronger than 1&nbsp;mW, effective from 1 July 2008. Those whose professions require the use of a laser can apply for an exemption.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20080728165341/http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?c=10444 Minister media release. Importation of laser pointers banned]. [[Australian Customs Service]]. Friday, 30 May 2008</ref> In [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]] and the Australian Capital Territory a laser pointer with an accessible emission limit greater than 1&nbsp;mW is classified as a prohibited weapon and any sale of such items must be recorded.<ref>[http://www.dms.dpc.vic.gov.au/Domino/Web_Notes/LDMS/PubStatbook.nsf/0/655C4BD36C276088CA256E5B0021A8DD/$FILE/00-130sr.pdf Control of Weapons Regulations 2000]  ((webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080910041342/http://www.dms.dpc.vic.gov.au/Domino/Web_Notes/LDMS/PubStatbook.nsf/0/655C4BD36C276088CA256E5B0021A8DD/%24FILE/00-130sr.pdf |date=10 September 2008 )) S.R. No. 130/2000 Schedule 2 Number 33</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110303002900/http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/139894/FACT_SHEET_Prohibited_Weapons_LASER_POINTER_May_2010.pdf  Fact Sheet: Prohibited Weapons, Laser Pointers], May_2010, [[NSW Police Force]]</ref> In Western Australia, regulatory changes have classified laser pointers as controlled weapons and demonstration of a lawful reason for possession is required.<ref>Kobelke, John (13 April 2008) [http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Results.aspx?ItemID=130007 Laser pointers are now controlled weapons] ((Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110127040643/http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Results.aspx?ItemID=130007 |date=27 January 2011 )). Government of Western Australia.</ref> The WA state government has also banned as of 2000 the manufacture, sale and possession of laser pointers higher than class 2.<ref>Day, John (3 January 2000) [http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Results.aspx?ItemID=113799 The State Government has banned the manufacture, sale and possession of laser pointers] ((Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110127053915/http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Results.aspx?ItemID=113799 |date=27 January 2011 )). Government of Western Australia.</ref> In New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory the product safety standard for laser pointers prescribes that they must be a Class 1 or a Class 2 laser product.<ref>[http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/fragview/inforce/subordleg+413+2007+pt.2-div.18-sec.73+0+N?dq=Document%20Types%3D%22Acts,%20Regs%22,%20All%20Words%3D%22Laser%20pointers%22,%20Search%20In%3D%22Text%22 Extract from New South Wales Fair Trading Regulation 2007]. Legislation.nsw.gov.au. Retrieved on 15 October 2011</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20080910041343/http://www.legislation.act.gov.au/sl/2002-39/current/pdf/2002-39.pdf Fair Trading (Consumer Product Standards) Regulation 2002]. Republication date: 3 April 2008</ref> In February 2009 South African cricketer [[Wayne Parnell]] had a laser pointer directed at his eyes when attempting to take a catch, which he dropped. He denied that it was a reason for dropping the ball, but despite this the MCG decided to keep an eye out for the laser pointers. The laser pointer ban only applies to hand-held battery-powered laser devices and not laser modules.<ref>((cite web|url=http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page4372.asp |title=Australian Customs on Firearms and Weapons |publisher=Customs.gov.au |date=21 April 2013 |access-date=8 November 2016))</ref>

In November 2015  a 14-year-old Tasmanian boy damaged both his eyes after shining a laser pen "... in his eyes for a very brief period of time". He burned his [[retinas]] near the [[macula]], the area where most of a person's central vision is located. As a result, the boy has almost immediately lost 75% of his vision, with little hope of  recovery.<ref name=abc-not-toys>((cite news |last1=Ross|first1=Selina |title=Laser pointers not toys, optometrists warn, after Tasmanian teenager damages eyes |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-05/optometrist-warning-after-teen-burns-retinas-with-laser/6916564 |access-date=5 November 2015 |work=ABC News |publisher=[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]] |date=5 November 2015))</ref>

===Canada===
New regulations controlling the importation and sale of laser pointers (portable, battery-powered) have been established in Canada in 2011 and are governed by Health Canada using the Consumer Protection Act for the prohibition of the sale of Class 3B (IEC) or higher power lasers to "consumers" as defined in the [https://web.archive.org/web/20120623195628/http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-1.68/index.html Consumer Protection Act] . Canadian federal regulation follows [https://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/default.htm FDA (US Food & Drug Administration) CDRH], and IEC ([http://www.iec.ch/ International Electrotechnical Commission]) hazard classification methods where manufacturers comply with the Radiation Emitting Devices Act. As of July 2011 three people<ref>((cite web|url=http://www.durhamregion.com/news/article/1063262--laser-shone-at-police-chopper-oshawa-man-charged |title=Laser Shone at Police Chopper, Oshawa Man Charged |publisher=Oshawa This Week |date=29 July 2011 |access-date=8 August 2011))</ref> had been charged under the federal ''[[Aeronautics Act]]'', which carries a maximum penalty of $100,000 and five years in prison, for attempting to dazzle a pilot with a laser. Other charges that could be laid include [[mischief]] and [[assault]].<ref>((cite web|url=http://www.mytelus.com/ncp_news/article.en.do?pn=regional/alberta&articleID=3035834 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911173639/http://www.mytelus.com/ncp_news/article.en.do?pn=regional/alberta&articleID=3035834 |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 September 2012 |title=TELUS |publisher=Mytelus.com |access-date=11 August 2010)) </ref>

=== Colombia ===
The "RESOLUCIÓN 57151 DE 2016" prohibits the marketing and making available to consumers of laser pointers with output power equal to or greater than one milliwatt (>=1&nbsp;mW).<ref>((Cite web|title=RESOLUCIÓN 57151 DE 2016|url=http://www.sic.gov.co/recursos_user/documentos/normatividad/Resoluciones/2016/Resolucion_57151_2016.pdf|access-date=31 July 2017|archive-date=26 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170626052212/http://www.sic.gov.co/recursos_user/documentos/normatividad/Resoluciones/2016/Resolucion_57151_2016.pdf|url-status=dead))</ref> Colombia is the first country in South America to regulate the marketing of these products.

===Hong Kong===
Laser pointers are not illegal in Hong Kong but air navigation rules state that it is an offense to exhibit "any light" bright enough to endanger aircraft taking off or landing.

During the [[2019–20 Hong Kong protests]], laser pointers were used by protesters to confuse police officers and scramble facial recognition cameras. On August 6, 5 off-duty police officers arrested Baptist University student union president Keith Fong Chung-yin after he purchased 10 laser pointers in Sham Shui Po for possession of "offensive weapons". Fong said he would use the pointers for stargazing, but police described them as “laser guns” whose beams could cause eye injuries. In defence of the arrest, police said that under Hong Kong law the pointers can be deemed “weapons” if they are used in or intended for use in an attack. The incident led to a public outcry. Human rights activist Icarus Wong Ho-yin said that going by the police explanation, “a kitchen worker who buys a few knives can be arrested for being in possession of offensive weapons”. Democratic Party lawmaker and lawyer James To Kun-sun criticized the police for abuse of power. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the dome of Hong Kong's Space Museum to put on a “laser show” to denounce police's claims that these laser pointers were offensive weapons. Fong was released unconditionally two days later.<ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3021862/hong-kong-police-defend-arrest-baptist-university|title=Police defend arrest of Baptist University student leader for carrying laser pointers|date=2019-08-07|website=South China Morning Post|language=en|access-date=2019-09-09))</ref>

===Netherlands===
Before 1998 Class 3A lasers were allowed. In 1998 it became illegal to trade Class 2 laser pointers that are "gadgets" (e.g. ball pens, key chains, business gifts, devices that will end up in children's possession, parts of toys, etc.). It is still allowed to trade Class 2 (< 1&nbsp;mW) laser pointers proper, but they have to meet requirements regarding warnings and instructions for safe use in the manual. Trading of Class 3 and higher laser pointers is not allowed.<ref>[http://www.denederlandsegrondwet.nl/9353000/1/j9vvihlf299q0sr/vi3ahif09kz6 Brief minister over laserpointers – Vaststelling van de begroting van de uitgaven en de ontvangsten van het Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport (XVI) voor het jaar 1999]. Letter from the minister of health care to Dutch Parliament, no. 71, 11 June 1999.</ref>

===Sweden===
The use of pointers with output power > 1&nbsp;mW is regulated in public areas and school yards.<ref>[http://www.stralsakerhetsmyndigheten.se/Allmanhet/Laser/Laserpekare/ Laserpekare] (in Swedish)</ref> From 1 January 2014 it is necessary to have a special permit in order to own a laser pointer with a classification of 3R, 3B or 4, i.e. over 1&nbsp;mW.<ref>[http://www.stralsakerhetsmyndigheten.se/start/Laser/Skarpta-regler-for-starka-laserpekare-fran-1-januari-2014/ Skärpta regler för starka laserpekare från 1 januari 2014](in Swedish)</ref>

===Switzerland===
In Switzerland, the possession of laser pointers has been prohibited since 1 June 2019, except for class 1 laser pointers, which may be used only indoors.<ref>((cite web |title=Laser pointers |url=https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/gesund-leben/umwelt-und-gesundheit/strahlung-radioaktivitaet-schall/elektromagnetische-felder-emf-uv-laser-licht/laser-und-lasershows/laserpointer.html |website=Federal Office of Public Health |access-date=12 October 2019 |language=en))</ref>

===United Kingdom===
UK and most of Europe are now harmonized on Class 2 (<1&nbsp;mW) for General presentation use laser pointers or laser pens. Anything above 1&nbsp;mW is illegal for sale in the UK (import is unrestricted). Health and Safety regulation insists on use of Class 2 anywhere the public can come in contact with indoor laser light, and the DTI have urged Trading Standards authorities to use their existing powers under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to remove lasers above class 2 from the general market.<ref>The UK Health Protection Agency's [http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAweb&HPAwebStandard/HPAweb_C/1195733794576 Laser Pointer Infosheet] ((webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613070927/http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAweb%26HPAwebStandard/HPAweb_C/1195733794576 |date=13 June 2008 )).</ref>

Since 2010, it is an offence in the UK to shine a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle the pilot, [[strict liability|whether intentionally or not]], with a maximum penalty of a [[Standard scale#Scale|level 4 fine]] (currently £2500). It is also an offence to [[Mens rea#England and Wales|negligently or recklessly]] endanger an aircraft, with a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.<ref>[http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2009/3015/made Air Navigation Order 2009]. For the strict liability offence, see paragraphs 222 and 241(6) and part B of schedule 13 of the Order. For reckless endangerment, see paragraphs 137 and 241(8) and part D of schedule 13 of the Order.</ref>

To assist with enforcement, police helicopters use [[GPS]] and [[thermal imaging camera]], together with dog teams on the ground, to help locate the offender; the discarded warm laser pointer is often visible on the thermal camera, and its [[wavelength]] can be matched to that recorded by an event recorder in the helicopter.<ref>((cite web|last=Symonds |first=Tom |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7990013.stm |title=Technology &#124; Police fight back on laser threat |work=BBC News |date=8 April 2009 |access-date=8 November 2016))</ref>

===United States===
Laser pointers are Class II or Class IIIa devices, with output [[Radiant flux|beam power]] less than 5 milliwatts (<5&nbsp;mW). According to [[Food and Drug Administration (United States)|U.S. Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) regulations, more powerful lasers may not be sold or promoted as laser pointers.<ref name="FDA-laser-pointer-1">((cite web |title=Important Information for Laser Pointer Manufacturers |url=https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/laser-products-and-instruments/important-information-laser-pointer-manufacturers |website=www.fda.gov |publisher=[[Food and Drug Administration]] |access-date=26 November 2021 |language=en |date=2017-12-04 ))</ref> Also, any laser with class higher than IIIa (more than 5 milliwatts) requires a key-switch interlock and other safety features.<ref name="FDA-CFR1040">U.S. Code of Federal Regulations,((cite web |title=21 CFR 1040.10 Performance standards for Light-Emitting products - Laser products |url=https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfCFR/CFRSearch.cfm?FR=1040.10 |website=www.fda.gov |publisher=[[Food and Drug Administration]] |access-date=26 November 2021 |language=en )) ''Note that these regulations pre-date the availability of Laser Pointers and so do not reference them by name.''</ref>  Shining a laser pointer of any class at an aircraft is illegal and punishable by a fine of up to $11,000.<ref>((cite web |url=http://www.faa.gov/news/press_releases/news_story.cfm?newsId=12765 |title=FAA News Briefing |publisher=faa.gov |url-status=dead |access-date=16 June 2011 |archive-date=4 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604163808/http://www.faa.gov/news/press_releases/news_story.cfm?newsId=12765 ))</ref>

All laser products offered in commerce in the US must be registered with the FDA, regardless of output power.<ref  name="FDA-CFR1040" /><ref name="FDA-laser-pointer-2">((cite web |title=Illuminating Facts About Laser Pointers |url=https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/alerts-and-notices/illuminating-facts-about-laser-pointers |website=www.fda.gov |publisher=[[Food and Drug Administration]] |access-date=26 November 2021 |language=en |date=2019-06-13 ))</ref>

====Arizona====

In [[Arizona]] it is a Class 1 misdemeanor if a person "aims a laser pointer at a police officer if the person intentionally or knowingly directs the beam of light from an operating laser pointer at another person and the person knows or reasonably should know that the other person is a police officer." (Arizona Revised Statutes §13-1213) <ref>((cite web|url=http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/ars/13/01213.htm&Title=13&DocType=ARS |title=Format Document |publisher=Azleg.gov |access-date=11 August 2010))</ref>

====Michigan====

Public act 257 of 2003 makes it a felony for a person to "manufacture, deliver, possess, transport, place, use, or release" a "harmful electronic or electromagnetic device" for "an unlawful purpose"; also made into a felony is the act of causing "an individual to falsely believe that the individual has been exposed to a... harmful electronic or electromagnetic device."<ref>[http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2003-2004/publicact/htm/2003-PA-0257.htm  "2003-PA-0257".] Legislature.mi.gov. Retrieved 27 March 2013.</ref>

Public act 328 of 1931 makes it a felony for a person to "sell, offer for sale, or possess" a "portable device or weapon from which an electric current, impulse, wave, or beam may be directed" and is designed "to incapacitate temporarily, injure, or kill".<ref>[http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(jl0x0o45fbk4fzepfa0hrx45))/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=mcl-750-224a "Michigan Legislature - Section 750.224a".] Legislature.mi.gov. Retrieved 27 March 2013.</ref>

====Maine====

Public law 264, H.P. 868 - L.D. 1271 criminalizes the knowing, intentional, and/or reckless use of an electronic weapon on another person, defining an electronic weapon as a portable device or weapon emitting an electric current, impulse, beam, or wave with disabling effects on a human being.<ref>[http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/SessionLaws/Acts/2004/Chapter170 "PUBLIC Law Chapter 264".] Mainelegislature.org. 15 January 2003. Retrieved 2013-03-27.</ref>

====Massachusetts====

Chapter 170 of the Acts of 2004, Section 140 of the General Laws, section 131J states: "No person shall possess a portable device or weapon from which an electric current, impulse, wave or beam may be directed, which current, impulse, wave or beam is designed to incapacitate temporarily, injure or kill, except ... Whoever violates this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000 or by imprisonment in the house of correction for not less than 6 months nor more than 2 1/2 years, or by both such fine and imprisonment."
<ref>[http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/SessionLaws/Acts/2004/Chapter170 "Session Laws: CHAPTER 170 of the Acts of 2004".] Malegislature.gov. 15 July 2004. Retrieved 2013-03-27.</ref>

====Utah====

In [[Utah]] it is a class C [[misdemeanor]] to point a laser pointer at a [[law enforcement officer]] and is an [[infraction]] to point a laser pointer at a moving vehicle.<ref>[http://le.utah.gov/~code/TITLE76/htm/76_10_250100.htm Utah State Legislature 76-10-2501 Unlawful use of a laser pointer] ((webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080710181333/http://le.utah.gov/~code/TITLE76/htm/76_10_250100.htm |date=10 July 2008 )) Most states now have similar laws to Utah's making some uses of laser pointers (such as pointing one at a police officer or an aircraft (federal law) a crime)</ref>

==See also==
((Portal|Electronics))
* [[Dazzler (weapon)]]
* [[Laser safety]]
* [[Pointer (rod)]]

==References==
((Reflist|30em))

==Further reading==
* J.A. Hadler and M.L. Dowell, [https://www.nist.gov/manuscript-publication-search.cfm?pub_id=912781 "Accurate, inexpensive testing of handheld lasers for safe use and operation."] Meas.Sci.Technol. '''24''' (2013) 045202.

==External links==
* ((Commons category-inline|Laser pointers))
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20111216083826/http://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/media/laser_hazards_web.pdf Laser Hazards in Navigable Airspace, FAA medical brochure for pilots]
* [https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2014/february/protecting-aircraft-from-lasers Protecting Aircraft from Lasers - New Program Offers Rewards for Information] [[FBI]]
*
[https://laserbook247.com.in Laserbook247]

((lasers))

((DEFAULTSORT:Laser Pointer))
[[Category:Laser applications|Pointers]]
[[Category:Laser image generation|Pointers]]
[[Category:Office equipment]]

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