Laser Pointers

[Bob.Prociuk]

Hi Everyone:

Just wanted to let you know that Transport Canada has issued new guidelines on the possession and use of laser pointers. Many of us have these devices and I think we are ok but you should be aware of what the new guidelines are. They sound ominous at first. Here is what the government web site leads off with:

Many hand-held lasers are now prohibited: Check yours!
With some exceptions, it is now illegal to possess a hand-held laser over 1 milliwatt (mW) in public areas within:
•   municipalities within the greater Montréal, Toronto and Vancouver regions
•   a 10-kilometre radius of any airport and certified heliports

Lasers for astronomy and laser light shows
Lasers are often used in astronomy to point at stars or sky features. If you plan on aiming a laser into navigable airspace, you must get permission from Transport Canada.
We give written permission if your laser use is not likely to:
•   create a hazard to aviation safety
•   cause damage to an aircraft
•   cause injury to persons on board the aircraft
We may specify conditions necessary to ensure the safe use of the laser.
You can also speak with your local astronomy club. They may have additional information for you. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada provides information on green laser pointer usage.


Check out their web site for the full story (copy and paste into your brouser): http://www.tc.gc.ca/en/services/transportation-security/aviation/hand-held-lasers-legally-safely.html

[Ed.Mizzi]

Bob, Thanks for posting this. I should have done this a while ago, as it has been discussed at RASC National and among club presidents. But it was/is still unclear as to RASC's situation re: using lasers for outreach and education.
Sorry
Ed

[Victor.Abraham]

Here is a link to RASC's response from the Ministry of Transport dated November 16, 2022: https://www.rasc.ca/authorisation

It's a blanket letter granting us the use of GLP's within certain guidelines. It's highly recommended to keep a copy with you if you do any outreach and have a GLP.

RASC also has a number of resources on their site: https://www.rasc.ca/laser-pointer-usage