Polar Scope Illuminator

[eddy]

Ok so following a few guides on the internet i made a polar scope illuminator.

Bit of pipe that goes into the mount with a red led in it.

Just tested it out and it only illuminates 1/2 of the reticule.....any ideas what COULD be wrong? If i put my hand over the end of the pipe the whole thing lights up. I can only pressume its dark on the 1 side, although looking at it, it lights the whole thing up.

The other thing is, wouldnt an LED be far too bright and wash out polaris when trying to use the polar scope?

AND finally....what if all of the above fail, and i cant see the reticule, whats next option? lol

Many thanks!