I know nothing about lasers

[Sue me]

Sorry for the dumb question, but I need this for a science experiment as quickly as possible. I need a laser pointer that actually has a visible beam and not just a dot. I bought one yesterday and the only way you can get a visible beam is if it refracts off of baby powder or steam or something of that sort. So can anyone direct me to a reasonably priced laser that will give me a visible beam?

Thanks in advance

 

[Bionic-Badger]

Even with higher powered lasers (> laser pointers), you can only see the beam in certain conditions. You need the room to be dark, and have some dust in the air. Note that, unlike laser pointers, higher powered lasers are very dangerous to your eyes, so you better be extremely careful with them.

That said, you should get a green laser, since they're brightest to the human eyes. If you live in the US, you'll need to buy one from Susie's O-like shop. If you live outside the US (and not in Australia), you can buy some from DealExtreme.

Neither shop can or will get you a laser quickly, since they ship from China. Expect 2-5 weeks.

Otherwise, just get a green laser pointer and film or look at it at night. They're often still bright enough when it's dark with dust in the air to see the beam slightly. Red and violet lasers are a bit harder.

 

[laserpyro]

when all's said and done you can get a 1mW red and spray deo over the beam. but id definetly go with a greeny.

 

[cust11]

I have a somewhat new 5mW (actual output slightly higher) green pointer I would not mind parting with for next to nothing. It has a few marks on the end from vicegrips and the external power button is missing (it still works, but the button is countersunk now). I live in the US if that helps. PM me if you are interested and want to work out a deal.

-Mike