Follow the International Space Station

Humankind is eternally indebted to Thomas Edison for his invention of the lightbulb. It transformed life and work by enabling us to continue to a multitude of activities after dark and by lighting our way while travelling.

Modern research has shown, however, that with the explosion of light use, not just for manual activities, but through screens which are now at the centre of a vast proportion of people’s lives, we are also reaping a downside.

Lighting design for better health and well-being

Excessive exposure to light at times when nature would have us sleeping, or at least resting in low light, is playing havoc with circadian rhythms, leading to an epidemic of sleep deprivation. As light regulates several biological functions, such as the sleep-wake cycle, metabolism, alertness and mood, artificial lighting is a big factor in the widespread problem.

To show how seriously this issue is being taken, the International Space Station is currently undergoing an overhaul of its lighting, replacing the original fluorescent bulbs with LEDs. As astronauts in the station circle the earth every 90 minutes, they don’t experience the usual night and day.

Such frequent views of glaring sun prevent normal serotonin/melatonin functioning. LED lights should help them to sleep better at ‘night’ and be more alert during their ‘day’. They also use less energy, last longer and don’t have either mercury or glass components, lessening the risk of toxic metal or glass shards if bulbs break in zero gravity.

Out of the blue

With such awareness of how screens are affecting the cognitive function of the younger generation especially, much research is now focused on using filters and various light wavelengths (shades) to mitigate the effects of over-exposure to blue light. Mobile phone companies are including light filters as a standard feature and there’s a lively demand for glasses which filter out harmful light waves.

I feel we are only beginning to explore the possibilities within new technology for adjusting the colour and intensity of light. Biologists are informing engineers and designers what directions we need to go in to lessen detrimental effects on gamers and night owls. It will surely lead to a more colourful world.