A laser invented in Scotland is so small that it can fit into a matchbox. Developed by Bruce Sinclair and Neil Mackinnon of the School of Physics and Astronomy at St Andrews University, the laser is simple to mass-produce and its spe cial construction allows it to generate a high-quality green beam over a long and efficient life span.

The power source is a diode las-e-similar to the one used in compact disc players. The laser is poered by a beam that is reflected through a crystal that converts its infrared light into green laser light.