Exploring the power of light

Watch the recording of this webinar to learn about studies on advanced lighting technologies, such as for enhancing alertness and regulating sleep-wake rhythms of astronauts, which could open doors to innovative architectural applications.
Exploring the Power of Light
RIBA logo

Presented by

George C. Brainard
George C. Brainard
Director, Light Research Program
Professor of Neurology
Jefferson Medical College
Thomas Jefferson University

Key topics and learnings


Light is a potent stimulus for regulating human biology and has the capacity to restore health in clinical applications, such as treating winter depression and sleep disorders. In addition, light therapy has been evaluated for healthy individuals who experience sleep-wake disruption associated with intercontinental jet travel, shift work and spaceflight. Studies are in process testing a prototype solid state light system for supporting astronaut vision as well as sleep-wake rhythm, neuroendocrine, neurobehavioral and sleep regulation in crewmembers on the International Space Station. Development of such advanced lighting technologies opens the door to innovative architectural applications in public facilities, work places and homes.

Related material

  • A living-systems lens to lighting design​

    A living-systems lens to lighting design​

    Attend this webinar to explore how artificial illumination can move beyond energy efficiency to support the health, rhythms, and resilience of all life on Earth.

  • Smart Places, Safer Roads

    Smart Places, Safer Roads

    Attend this webinar to discover how lighting is evolving from simple traffic-based systems to intelligent, context-aware solutions.

  • From Concept to Commissioning

    From Concept to Commissioning

    Watch this webinar to gain an inside look at the architectural lighting market, as Neil Gamble shares the journey from concept to completion and the stakeholders who bring a designer’s vision to life.