Disco laser lights projected by the LaserCube laser light projector indoors

Aerial Laser Show Guide: An Easy Portable Setup

Think about your favorite concert. The best part was probably the aerial laser beams cutting through the air, looking like liquid light floating above you. You might think you need heavy, expensive gear to do this. But you don’t. You can set up a pro sky laser show in your own backyard without as much hassle as you think.

The Secret is the Fog

The number one rule of laser lighting is that light is invisible in clear air. If you turn on a laser in a clean room, you will likely only see a dot on the wall rather than the beam itself.

To see the beams, the light needs something to bounce off, so you will need fog or haze. This creates a canvas for laser beam and aerial effects, and according to the International Laser Display Association (ILDA), atmospheric scattering is essential for visible beams.

Pro Tip: If you are outdoors, watch the wind. Even a light breeze can blow your fog away instantly.

For a portable setup, we recommend the Nano Fogger, which is available as an add-on or included in the Stadium Bundle. Since it fits in your hand and is battery-powered, your entire setup can be wire-free while creating enough mist to make the aerial laser display appear instantly.

Image of Lasercube Ultra 8 with dark background showing laser lights

Choosing the Right Gear

Traditional “sky lasers” are often very heavy and must be plugged into a wall outlet, which makes them difficult to use outdoors or at remote events.

The LaserCube is different because it is a portable laser projector that runs on a built-in battery for 2 to 4 hours. You can take it anywhere without ever hunting for power cords.

The LaserCube 7.5W Ultra MK2 model is perfect for this as it packs 7,500 mW of power. This brightness allows you to create thick beams that look amazing even when there is some ambient light.

Setting Up Your Show

You can get this running in just a few minutes by following these steps:

  1. Place it High: Put your LaserCube on a tripod to help the beams travel safely over the heads of your audience (we recommend at least 3 meters high).
  2. Add Fog: Use your Nano Fogger to add a little mist into the air, which will instantly reveal the beams.
  3. Open LaserOS: This is the free app that controls the laser, available for your iOS or Android phone as well as Mac and PC.
  4. Pick an Effect: Select a “Flat Sheet” or “Liquid Sky” effect from the visualizers. This creates a flat “ceiling” of light that creates a mesmerizing tunnel effect above the crowd.
  5. Sync to Music: Turn on the microphone mode in the app so the beams flash and dance to the beat of your music automatically.

Safety and Sky Laser Shows

Safety should always be your top priority. While a sky laser show looks cool, you have to follow the rules to keep everyone safe.

Never point a laser directly into the open sky because this creates a risk for airplanes. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strictly warns against aiming lasers at aircraft as it can distract pilots.

  • Terminate the Beams: Always aim beams at a tree line, a large wall, or a building.
  • Use a Spotter: Have a friend watch the sky. If they hear or see a plane, turn the laser off immediately.

Ready to Start?

You don’t need to have a complex professional set up to make aerial lasers happen. With a LaserCube and some fog, professional lighting fits right in your backpack. Now you can bring a stunning light show to any party, anywhere.