The Chabot Space and Science Center, a prestigious observatory complex nestled in the hills of Oakland, California, is known for its commitment to inspiring and educating people about the universe and our planet. Welcoming around 189,000 visitors annually, the Center recently faced challenges with its outdoor lighting. The existing system, comprising 62 high-pressure sodium and metal halide lights, was not only energy-intensive and high-maintenance but also contributed to issues like skyglow, discomfort glare, and light trespass – particularly problematic for an observatory.
LEOTEK’s Innovative Approach to Outdoor Lighting
In a collaborative effort to enhance the visitor experience and address these lighting issues, LEOTEK partnered with the Chabot Space and Science Center. The solution came in the form of the GreenCobra Junior LED luminaire, a product designed to provide comfortable, high-quality outdoor lighting while significantly reducing energy costs. LEOTEK’s advanced shield technology was employed in these luminaires to deliver uniform, directional light, aligning perfectly with the Center’s requirements.
Smart Lighting Features for Energy Efficiency
Chabot’s lighting upgrade was further augmented by incorporating bi-level motion sensors and multi-step field-adjustable light level tuning. This smart technology ensures that the light output increases to 100 percent when movement is detected, maintaining full brightness as needed. Once the movement ceases, the fixtures dim to a lower output. This intelligent feature not only reduces electricity costs but also supports a darker environment essential for observatory operations.
Impressive Savings and Educational Opportunities
The completion of this project has led to an impressive 90 percent reduction in lighting costs for the Chabot Space and Science Center. This significant transformation has turned the Center’s lighting system into a teaching tool about the benefits of efficient lighting and the importance of preserving dark skies. The journey to illuminate the path to Chabot with this custom solution from LEOTEK highlights how innovative and sustainable lighting solutions can not only enhance the user experience but also promote energy conservation and environmental awareness.
LEOTEK’s Role in Enhancing Chabot’s Visitor Experience
Through its partnership with the Chabot Space and Science Center, LEOTEK has played a crucial role in revolutionizing the Center’s lighting system. The GreenCobra Junior LED luminaire stands out as an ideal solution, striking the perfect balance between visual quality and energy efficiency, thereby contributing to a more immersive and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
