Aussie green laser pointer ban

The only people a ban will affect are the astronomers who are out doing outreach.

That's true. I cant think of anyone else would have a need for one.

Personally, I think this ban is a good idea. I have become increasingly alarmed at the Whirlpool in Birr over the last couple of years, where I have seen several people waving powerful green lasers at head height at the observing session at the Castle. I have discussed this at the event and I know I am not alone.
It is now quite possible to buy a Class IIIb pointer, which could damage your eye if your blink reflex is compromised.
Given the consequences of an accident for an individual enjoying a visual hobby like astronomy, I think restricting pointer sales to harmless Class I red lasers is a good idea. Of course, most people are responsible, but some aren't. That is why you can't buy an AK47 at Tescos.
I am now putting on my flame proof suit
Kevin

To me that's an argument for banning hammers, and chainsaws and just about every tool really. In fact, it's an argument for banning cars because some people drive really dangerously.

License them perhaps but they are exceptionally useful tools and a bunch of immature tools should not prevent those of us with a brain from using them.

Bart.

License them perhaps

That's about the only solution. License them to only people who have a valid membership to an astronomy club or people in the teaching profession.

If that is even possible.

My other hobby is archery. I have both a crossbow and a 6 ft long recurve bow. I have to have the croosbow licensed because it is considered a consealable weapon......................whereas the recurve can not be consealed therefor does not need a license.

From what i am reading about these green lasers................they ARE dangerous AND consealable........................therefor they should under the same government act be licensed.

I am probably goin' to P$%^ some people off, but it needs to be said.

Most of the "abuse" of laser pointers I've seen has come from supposed astronomers. I've seen them pointed close to aircraft flight paths, I've seen them overused at star parties where they are usually not needed (as most other people there are also astronomers), and they are irritating to dark adapted eyes as they "broadcast" in green where the eye is probably most sensitive.
The only place for a green laser pointer is at a public outreach (Full Stop). Other than that ban 'em.

From what i am reading about these green lasers................they ARE dangerous AND consealable........................therefor they should under the same government act be licensed.

so are hammers. And if they are licenced the only people who will have get licences are carpenters. It wont matter one bit to anyone else who wants a hammer.

As for star parties - please can we ban cars first?

And telescopes! Did you realise that when pointed at the sun without a solar filter they can BLIND YOU INSTANTLY!!! Ban them now! The government protect us! Or should we only ban what we personally don't like.

so are hammers. And if they are licenced the only people who will have get licences are carpenters

That's true. WHERE do you draw the line?

Can a line be drawn?