The FL530 Flight™ is a distinctive small-scale downlight designed for both single and multi-tiered configurations. Its indirect LED system, paired with Sternberg’s optional SoftVue™ lens, creates a comfortable visual experience by dramatically reducing glare. Despite its compact and simple round housing, the luminaire incorporates advanced features that enhance both performance and longevity, making it a versatile solution for architectural, urban, and site lighting applications.
At the core of the luminaire’s performance is Sternberg’s patented Heat-Pipe technology, an innovation that ensures superior thermal management. The heat pipes operate through a combination of evaporation and condensation, efficiently pulling heat away from the LEDs and transferring it to the aluminum body, where it dissipates naturally. This process lowers operating temperatures, significantly extending LED life while maintaining optimal efficacy. By keeping the LED system cooler, the heat pipes maximize long-term performance in even the most demanding outdoor environments.
The optical system is carefully engineered for both efficiency and comfort. High-output, high-brightness chip-on-board (COB) LEDs are paired with a multi-piece segmented reflector system made from polished Alzak™, producing uniform illumination. The SoftVue™ lens option further enhances the design by mitigating glare, improving visual comfort, and ensuring light is distributed evenly across the intended area. For projects requiring precise light control, the luminaire can be equipped with an internal 120° House Side Shield (HSS), a spun aluminum component that reduces backlight without affecting the overall aesthetic.
Performance is further supported by a robust and efficient electronic driver, securely mounted within the luminaire. The UL-recognized driver operates at 50/60Hz and supports 0–10V dimming protocols, allowing smooth integration into lighting control systems. It is engineered with protections against overload, overheating, and short circuits, while supplemental surge protection is included in accordance with IEEE/ANSI C62.41.2 standards. With a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 20% and a power factor greater than 0.9, the driver delivers reliable efficiency. A quick-disconnect electrical connector simplifies both installation and maintenance. For projects requiring adjustable field performance, an optional Fixed Dimming Resistor Board (FDRB) provides a numbered 10-step selector, allowing repeatable dimming adjustments between 25% and 100% of the fixture’s output.
Control options extend beyond dimming. The FL530 Flight™ can be equipped with a programmable passive infrared motion sensor, factory-programmed or field-adjusted with an optional wireless controller. Two lens choices accommodate different mounting heights, offering coverage ranges of 40 or 70 feet, while an integrated dusk-to-dawn sensor ensures adaptive operation based on ambient light. Photocontrol options are also available, including a twist-lock roof-mounted version prewired to the driver. This control activates lighting at 1.5 footcandles and deactivates between 2 and 3 footcandles, ensuring responsive and efficient night-time operation.
Built for outdoor environments, the FL530 is both UL listed per UL1598 and CSA C22.2 No. 250.0 for wet locations in the United States and Canada, and IP65 rated for superior protection against dust and water intrusion. NightSky® friendly design properties and available optics allow the luminaire to achieve a U0 BUG rating in specific configurations, helping meet dark sky compliance requirements.
The fixture’s durability is matched by its finish quality. Sternberg employs a six-stage polyester powder coat paint system that exceeds AAMA 2604, AAMA 2605, ASTM D523, and ASTM D4214 standards. Each luminaire undergoes strict quality inspections before shipping to ensure consistency and resilience, even in harsh conditions. The Urban finish palette offers a modern selection of textured or matte coatings, including Black Textured, Urban Gun Metal, Urban Bronze, Urban Silver, and Urban White. All finishes include metallic flakes for added sophistication. Hardware is stainless steel, with black oxide coating applied for darker finishes and uncoated hardware used for lighter tones. For special projects, custom finish options are available, including custom color matching to blend seamlessly into specific architectural environments.
The LED light engine is designed for long-term performance and sustainability. Using high-output COB LEDs mounted for maximum thermal transfer, the system is RoHS compliant, free from lead and mercury, and fully recyclable. Lumen maintenance is determined in accordance with IESNA TM-21, based on LM-80 data of no less than 6,000 hours and validated by in-situ testing in NVLAP-accredited laboratories. With a projected lifespan of 100,000 hours at 70% of initial output (L70 at 25°C), the luminaire delivers reliable, high-quality illumination. Multiple correlated color temperature (CCT) options are available, ranging from 2700K to 5000K, with a minimum color rendering index (CRI) of 70.
The FL530 Flight™ is also adaptable in its mounting and installation. Optional accessories include a round pole adapter (RP345) for 3-, 4-, or 5-inch round poles, a flat mount adapter (FMA) for square shafts, and a mast arm adapter (MA) designed to slip-fit a 2-3/8" OD tenon. An optional upsweeping cast aluminum arm adds decorative character, extending the fixture from either poles or walls while enhancing the architectural profile of the installation.
Altogether, the FL530 Flight™ represents a balance of advanced technology, durable construction, and refined aesthetics. From its patented thermal management system to its SoftVue™ glare-reducing optics and array of controls, it is engineered to deliver reliable, comfortable, and adaptable outdoor lighting. Supported by Sternberg’s seven-year limited warranty, it is a long-term solution for projects that demand both performance and visual appeal in streetscapes, pedestrian zones, campuses, and architectural settings.
https://www.sternberglighting.com/products/40/fl530-small-flight
