I recently saw a product with an idea behind it which I hoped to use.
Tripod kicking/tripping is a big problem at public viewing events. I tend not to use my expensive tripods for them, rather I use charity shop tripods instead. You can get a cheap tripod for £5 from a charity shop and they’re often still perfectly functional, if a little old fashioned. My current go-to was £3 and is an all aluminium tubular one which I believe is from the 1970’s.
Hanging a very dim red light underneath was my idea – this highlights the tripod to the general public and hopefully makes them more aware of it at public viewing evenings – plus it looks cool!
The product I saw is made by Olight and is called Sphere. Looking at the description it looks like they are just a multi colour LED cluster in a case which can do all the colours and a nice warm white too. I was sold. I ordered a twin pack.
When they arrived however I was shocked to find they actually can generate some amazing patterns and mood lighting. I think that’s decided me though – they don’t just live with the telescope!
They’re also incredibly bright on max brightness. Definitely good enough to use for area illumination on a dark site.