A beacon light (also called a beacon light ) is a signal light used to attract attention, provide warnings, or aid navigation. This type of lighting is often used in aviation, maritime navigation, road safety, and industrial applications .
1. Characteristics of a beacon light
✅ High visibility → Often brightly colored (red, white, yellow or blue) and flashing.
✅ Can be continuous or flashing → Depending on the application.
✅ Weatherproof → Many beacon lights are IP65 or IP68 waterproof .
✅ Various light sources → Use of LED, xenon or halogen lamps .
✅ Automatic activation → Some beacon lights switch on automatically in poor visibility.
2. Applications of beacon lights
✈ Aviation → Red beacon lights on aircraft to increase visibility.
🚢 Maritime navigation → Lighthouses and buoys use beacon lights as a navigational aid.
🚨 Emergency services → Blue and red flashing lights on police, fire and ambulance vehicles .
🚧 Road traffic & work zones → Orange warning lights on traffic signs, bridges and construction sites .
🏭 Industry & Machinery → Red or yellow safety lights on forklifts and production lines .
🌎 Wind turbines & tall buildings → White or red hazard lights to warn aircraft.
3. Different types of beacon lights
| Beacon Light Type | Color & Application |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Beacon | Red/white – Obstacles, aircraft navigation |
| Maritime beacon (Lighthouse/Buoy Light) | White/red/green – Navigation for ships |
| Warning Beacon | Yellow/orange – Roadworks, industrial signage |
| Emergency Beacon | Blue/red – Police, fire brigade, ambulance |
| Industrial signal lights | Red/yellow – Machine safety and factory alarms |
4. Difference between beacon light and strobe light
| Feature | Beacon light | Strobe light |
|---|---|---|
| Light pattern | Continuous or slow flashing | Fast flashing |
| Application | Warning and navigation light | Motion analysis, entertainment |
| To colour | Red, white, yellow, blue | Mostly white |
💡 In short:
A beacon light is a bright, visible signal light used for warnings, navigation, and safety . It is used in aviation, shipping, traffic, and industry to improve visibility and reduce risks.