Beaconess, the Laser-Star Maker Mug
Laser guide stars excite mesospheric sodium at 589 nm at about 90 km altitude.
The joke: Adaptive optics people literally make their own star. Distinct from the live Sodium Doublet poster. The slogan on the mug reads NO STAR? MAKE ONE AT 90 KM.
Source: R. Foy & A. Labeyrie, A&A 152, L29 (1985); W. Happer et al., JOSA A 11, 263 (1994).
Shipping calculated at checkout by destinationMade to order, ships in ~10 days
Details
Size & material11oz · 15oz
Black glossy ceramic mug with a C-handle. Lead- and BPA-free.
- 11oz: 0.33 l
- 15oz: 0.44 l
CareDishwasher & microwave safe
Dishwasher safe (top rack) or hand wash. Microwave safe.
ShippingBy destination
Shipping calculated at checkout by destination.
Made to order: about 10 days of production and handling before it ships.
Returns & replacements21 days
Every item is printed to order, so we can’t accept returns or exchanges for change of mind, or if you ordered the wrong size or colour.
Print defect, misprint, damage or the wrong item? We’ll send a free replacement, or a refund if you prefer. Report it within 21 days of delivery with a photo; no need to send it back.
The physics
Equations
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| \(E\) | photon energy | \(\mathrm{J}\) |
| \(h\) | Planck constant | \(\mathrm{J·s}\) |
| \(c\) | speed of light | \(\mathrm{m/s}\) |
| \(\lambda\) | wavelength | \(\mathrm{m}\) |
Sources
- R. Foy & A. Labeyrie, A&A 152, L29 (1985)
- W. Happer et al., JOSA A 11, 263 (1994) (opens in a new tab)
Field notes
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