Shortages in rare-earth elements are challenging fluorescent lamp costs. While lighting accounts for less than 10 percent of their use, they are an absolute necessity in the triphosphor coating process of all T8, T5, deluxe T12, and compact fluorescent pin- and self-ballasted lamps. According to Sylvania in an Aug. 17, 2011, webcast, rare-earth metal costs have risen dramatically in the past 18 months. Read more
Briefs
When the Lights Went Out
Historian David E. Nye explores the social history of blackouts in America. Read more
From the Archive
Light Pollution: Astronomers Wish for a Darker Future
From the Archive presents articles from the past 25 years, with new commentary from members of the lighting community. Read more
Congress Tackles Efficiency
As important energy efficiency bills await Congress' vote, what should the lighting industry expect—and lobby for? Read more
A new natatorium gives a New Jersey boarding school an illuminated presence. Read more
Natural Wonder
Massachusetts-based design firm Nervous System combines algorithms and aesthetics for a new line of custom light fixtures. Read more
New products that capture the sun's lighting potential. Read more
A Cooper Union engineering class creates a sustainably designed solar lantern for African communities in a remote outpost of northern Ghana. Read more
Belzberg Architects' design for the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust takes visitors on a journey into darkness. Read more
Filmmaker Ian Cheney explores contemporary society's relationship to the night sky. Read more
One-on-One
One-on-One with Zia Eftekhar
Zia Eftekhar is part of a rare lighting breed of industry professionals who have the hindsight of 40-plus years of experience. Read more
