Isophase light is a lighting signal in which the light source is on and off for an equal amount of time within a single cycle. This type of flashing light is often used in navigation lights, lighthouses, and maritime signaling to create recognizable patterns for shipping and aviation.
1. Characteristics of isophase light
✅ Flashes in a regular pattern → The light and dark periods are of equal length.
✅ Used in maritime and air navigation → Mainly on buoys and lighthouses.
✅ Provides a recognizable rhythm → Helps identify locations or hazards.
✅ Efficient and clearly visible in dark conditions .
✅ May vary in color (white, red, green or yellow) depending on use.
📌 Example: A lighthouse with an Isophase 6-second pattern means the light is on for 3 seconds and off for 3 seconds .
2. Applications of isophase light
🚢 Maritime navigation (buoys and lighthouses)
- Used to mark waterways.
- Helps ships navigate safely at night and in fog.
- Different rhythms and colors provide specific information (such as safe passages or obstacles).
✈ Aviation (Airports and Runways)
- Used in marker lights around airports and helipads.
- Provides recognizable flashing patterns for pilots.
🚦Traffic and warning signals
- Used for bridges, locks and dangerous crossings.
- Helps to increase attention in traffic.
📌 Isophase lighting is often combined with other flashing patterns to create unique signals.
3. Difference between isophase light and other indicator lights
| Type Light | Cartridge | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Isophase light | On and off for as long | Lighthouses, buoys, aviation markers |
| Flashlight | Short light signal followed by long darkness | Warning lights, obstruction lights |
| Interrupted Light (Oculting) | Long on, short off | Navigation lights with extended visibility |
| Running indicator light (Quick Flashing) | Rapid repetition of short flashes | Traffic signals, storm warning lights |
📌 Isophase lighting is unique because it has a consistent flashing rate, which aids recognition and navigation.
💡 In short:
An isophase light is a flashing light with a consistent "on" and "off" period . It is widely used in maritime navigation, aviation, and warning systems to provide clear and recognizable signals for orientation and safety.