Artificial Star / Alternate Light Source

OK, it's cloudy and drizzling, plus I've got to go to work tomorrow. Seeing recently has not been so hot. Is there any type of acceptable "artificial star" so as to star test with the aim of optimizing optical performance? Does reflected sunlight work? Can you acheive defraction rings by racking in and out of focus worthy of testing performance with either? I am guessing reflected sunlight is not dependant on atmospherics (as long as the sun is out). The thought of testing, collimating and adjusting on a sunny Saturday afternoon has got me giddy after the last few nights.

Give me some good news.

Thanks.

Gregg

I made my own "artificial star" from a white led. Go to Radio Shack or an electronic supply store and get a white led (about $1.50 to $2.50) they come in different voltage ratings so be sure to find out what voltage they operate on. Mine was a 12VDC unit so I bought a 9VDC transistor radio battery to power it with. Plenty bright at that voltage.

Next I took a 1.5ft. square of cardboard and spray painted it flat black. Put a hole in the middle for the led to stick out of. Soldered two clip leads to the led. Taped the led and battery to the back of the card board, hooked up the led to the battery. Attached it to a building about 150yrds away from the scope.

Was able to get a very decent collimation with it. I did refine the collimation on a real star when I got a chance. But the initial collimation was very close.

Hope this helps.

Thank you, everyone, for the advice. i will definetely get the book (checking with Anacortes first), and will try some of the other ideas. Thanks again.