Artificial Star ?

I was wondering if anyone had any info on creating artificial stars for telescope alignment purposes? I’ve heard they work great but cannot find much on construction of the device.

Thanks

The Surplus Shed had some pinholes in metal plate for sale but it looks like they were all bought up. Maybe they ended up here..

http://www.sunflower.com/%7Eclafever/bezt/html/ezstar.html

Anyway, these are a .003mm pinhole in a metal plate. The above link used to say you had to place the 'star' 60 feet away from the telescope.

Another interesting write up on making your own..

http://www.mapug.com/AstroDesigns/MAPUG/StarTest.htm

Mark Bernhardt

David, You can purchase one from www.eztelescope.com . It has a .003" pinhole & sells for $50. They advertised here on AM. Mr. Darian Rachal

thanks for the replies, I think I have enough info now to eiter build or buy a decent artifical star.