On my first night flight a few years ago I saw an incredibly bright green light from the city, at least 5 miles away. I asked my instructor what the green light was and he looked out to see what I was talking about but it had already gone.
A few weeks later a helicopter reported being blinded by a green laser in the same area. Police were investigating but never caught anyone.
I don't know if this was a cheap pen light or one that will light up a match but I can say it really does blind you. Distracting to say the least. Kills night vision. Lucky enough I was in cruise but on short finals - force a go around at least - at worst....