Astera LunaBulb: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Astera has unveiled the LunaBulb, a product that on the outside mirrors the aesthetics of a traditional lightbulb, while on the inside, it is equipped with the advanced creative control synonymous with Astera’s lighting ecosystem. The LunaBulb, an LED light, consumes a mere 3.5 watts and comes with E26, E27, and B22 fittings. Similar to a standard bulb, it can be directly screwed into an AC-wired bulb socket.
Versatility and Control with the LunaBulb
The LunaBulb offers the flexibility to adjust both white levels (ranging from 1,750 – 20,000K) and color (RGB, Mint, and Amber, with RGB, HIS, XY, and Filter Gel color selection options). This provides flicker-free lighting suitable for various settings, a feature made possible by the Titan LED engine. The LunaBulb can easily be transformed into a classic bulb, suitable for practical lighting, and a slimline bulb, which fits into a wide array of lamps and spaces. This transformation is achieved by simply attaching or detaching the ‘classic’ dome over the bulb using a spring-loaded clip.
Wireless Control and Configuration
The LunaBulb’s lights can be controlled wirelessly through several methods, including CRMX, Astera’s app, BTB link, and Astera’s White and FX Remotes. The Astera LunaBulb PrepCase facilitates the configuration process. The PrepCase can accommodate up to eight LunaBulbs, enabling quick configuration of the bulbs, either individually or as a group, based on the user’s preferred control option. The PrepCase also comes in a PrepInlay version, allowing users to integrate the inlay into their own setup, such as a flight case or a custom unit.
Pre-configuration and Purchase Options
The battery-powered PrepCase and PrepInlay, with a runtime of up to an hour or indefinitely, when using a Titan tube charger, allow for the pre-configuration of the bulbs before reaching the site. Each bulb is equipped with its own CRMX chip, and the PrepCase and PrepInlay can auto-assign DMX addresses for individual control or pre-configure dimming and color. Astera offers a variety of purchase options, including PrepCase and PrepInlay Kits, which come with eight LunaBulbs, as well as the standalone PrepCase and PrepInlay, sold with a power supply but requiring separate bulb purchases.
Integration and Outdoor Use
Both the individual bulbs and the PrepCase can be set as a Bluetooth Bridge (BTB) for controlling the rest of the set. A connection can be established with a single combo press on either the Astera White or FX remote, by pointing the remote at any individual light. This allows gaffers, cinematographers, console programmers, and lighting technicians to integrate LunaBulbs into their broader on-set lighting rig. With an IP44 rating, the LunaBulbs can be used outdoors, even in wet conditions, provided they are screwed into an equally rated socket.
While the pricing and availability details are yet to be disclosed, the Astera LunaBulb promises to be a game-changer in the lighting industry.
