In this paper, we propose a laser monitor with a horizontally located observation area for studying laser initiation and combustion of thin layers of metal nanopowders. Three configurations of the optical scheme with different inputs of igniting laser radiation and different magnifications are considered. Visualization of combustion of a 0.4 mm layer of aluminum nanopowder demonstrated the possibility of studying the surface of a nanopowder thin layer during combustion using a laser monitor. The bright glowing of the sample and the bright radiation of the igniting laser do not interfere with the imaging of the surface. The proposed system allows us to study surface changes caused by the propagation of combustion waves. It is demonstrated that in the region of laser initiation, combustion proceeds in one-stage, and combustion products are formed during laser action. Outside the initiation area, combustion proceeds in two stages. The results reveal the prospects for designing a laser monitor for studying the combustion of thinner layers of metal nanopowders.