Rescue Lasers

Most people have heard about using a torch to attract the attention of searchers at night, either on the ground or in the air. An adjustable torch with a standard bulb will work better then an LED based torch because the beam can be focused to project a higher intensity for a longer distance. But what if you were to use a laser? Lasers can be focused into a single beam that will not difuse for its entire length, so long as nothing gets in its way.

The problem with the thin beam from a laser pointer for signaling is that you would need to aim it perfectly in the eye of a searcher. That was before the Greatland Laser, a device that has been developed specifically for this purpose. Much more powerful than conventional laser pointers they produce a 'fan' of light, this means you get a line, not a dot if you point it at a wall. You can use this line to scan back and forth across the horizon of aircraft, eliminating the need for impossibly precise aim.

The results can be simply stunning, as can be seen in the photo above (beam when viewed directly). The patented fanning laser grows wider as the distance increases. At a distance of 25km the laser beam spreads over 2km wide, vastly increasing your chances of being seen. Due to the size of the beam the laser is also able to locate reflective objects or people. As can be seen below, an individual wearing a reflective jacket becomes highly reflective when the laser passes over them. The Greatland Laser is of great use to trampers, boaters, pilots, search and rescue staff, kayakers, mountain climbers and anyone involved in an outdoor activity that involves a risk of getting lost.

For more information visit www.greatlandlaser.com or contact Ryan at Intrepid Magazine, ryan@intrepidmagazine.com.