Since 1964, Rockwell International has maintained this database of laser incidents. Although reporting is voluntary, the sheer number of incidents in the database gives one pause.

One of the fastest-growing areas of laser incident is the “aircraft illuminated with laser” event. Shining lasers at aircraft is illegal in Maryland, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. In the City of Ocean City on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, laser pointers are banned entirely.