Astera SolaBulb Brings Zoomable Fresnel Control to Practical Lighting

by Nino LeitnerSeptember 17^th, 2025

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Astera has introduced the SolaBulb, the world’s first wireless, zoomable, bulb-style Fresnel designed for film, broadcast, live events, and exhibitions. Combining the familiar form factor of a PAR bulb with the precision of a Fresnel lens, the SolaBulb offers unprecedented versatility in practical lighting applications.

Unlike traditional LED bulbs, the SolaBulb integrates a manual 15°–50° zoom, allowing lighting designers and gaffers to transition smoothly from a tight spot to a wide wash. This makes it possible to achieve controlled accents or broad ambient coverage from a single compact source, without swapping fixtures.

Titan LED engine and output

At its core, the SolaBulb uses Astera’s Titan RGBMA LED engine, delivering saturated colors, accurate skin tones, and a high TLCI of 96 across 3200K to 6500K. Light output is notable for a 15W unit:

• 5,228 lux at 1m in 15° spot mode
• 1,652 lux at 30°
• 615 lux at 50° flood

Equivalent to a 50W PAR bulb, it maintains energy efficiency with maximum consumption at 16.5W.

The beam is shaped through a built-in PAR20 Fresnel lens, offering cinematic shadow quality, while the optional SolaSnoot accessory reduces spill and enhances contrast.

Flexible power and control

The bulb supports both AC (E26, E27, or B22 bases) and DC power via its integrated 3.5mm x 1.35mm socket. It is fully compatible with the Astera PowerStation (FP5-PS), which provides battery operation, external display, and programming options.

Control is equally adaptable:

• Built-in LumenRadio CRMX for DMX integration
• Bluetooth Bridge functionality for AsteraApp control
• Wireless RDM and IR remote compatibility

For quick setups, an integrated ON/OFF button allows pairing and preset selection without external devices. Wireless range extends up to 100m with CRMX/UHF, or 3m via Bluetooth.

Designed for set and stage use

Measuring roughly 114–137mm (4.5–5.4 in) in length (depending on socket type) and weighing 433g (0.95 lbs), the SolaBulb is only slightly larger than a standard PAR bulb. Mounting options include standard lamp sockets as well as 1/4”-20 and 3/8”-16 UNC threads for rigging with accessories like BabyPins.

With IP44 protection when using the waterproof cover, it can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. Safety mounting via secondary eyelets is supported for overhead use.

Astera SolaBulb specifications

• LED engine: Titan RGBMA
• Power draw: 15 W (max. 16.5 W)
• Output (5500K): 15°: 5,228 lux at 1m, 30°: 1,652 lux at 1m, 50°: 615 lux at 1m
• Beam angle: 15°–50° (manual zoom)
• Field angle: 23°–73°
• Color rendering: CRI/TLCI ≥96 (3200K–6500K)
• Strobe: 0–25 Hz
• Control: CRMX, AsteraApp (Bluetooth Bridge), RDM, IR remote
• Connectivity: Built-in CRMX and Bluetooth Bridge
• Power input: AC: E26 / E27 / B22, 100–240 V, DC: 9–18 V (3.5 mm x 1.35 mm)
• Protection rating: IP20 (DC) / IP44 (with cover on DC port)
• Mounting options: E26 / E27 / B22 socket, 1/4”-20, 3/8”-16 threads
• Dimensions: 114–137mm (4.5–5.4 in) length (depending on socket)
• Weight: 433g (0.95 lb)

Affordable scalability

Astera emphasizes that the SolaBulb is priced to allow deployment in larger numbers, enabling gaffers and designers to unlock creative setups that blend with existing NYX and LunaBulb ecosystems. Kits including multiple bulbs, snoots, and a PowerStation are also available.

Astera’s SolaBulb stands out as a rare combination of practical light form factor and professional-grade Fresnel functionality. Compact, zoomable, and fully wireless, it promises to streamline workflows across film sets, live events, and architectural applications.

Price and availability

Astera mentioned that they want to keep the price low so that any budget can make use of their SolaBulbs. This makes the most sense if you’re using just a few at a time, with each priced at an affordable $150. For more info, please visit their website.

Would you consider swapping your standard PAR bulbs for zoomable Fresnels like these? Let us know in the comments.