Fresnel

On a trip to the Pigeon Point Light Station I got a close-up look at the fresnel lens system that once helped guide wayward ships through dangerous waters.

 

A common 150-watt projection lamp bulb sits inside the massive dome in the visitor center.

 

The fresnel lens casts a multitude of colors and brightness levels across the lens surface. It must have been a sight to see in operation from the sea.