Filmlexikon.
Support
Astera NYX Bulb
Lighting · Equipment

Astera NYX Bulb

Murnau AI illustration
astera color temperature flow roll take

Astera LED bulb with E27 base, 60mm diameter, 3-20h battery runtime, IP65 rating, and Bluetooth/CRMX control for flexible on-set lighting.

Technical Details

The NYX Bulb measures 60mm in diameter with a length of 110mm and weighs 180g. The integrated battery allows for 3 hours of operation at maximum brightness, and up to 20 hours at reduced power. The fixture features a standard E27 socket and can be controlled via the AsteraApp using Bluetooth or CRMX wireless. The IP65 rating ensures protection against dust and water jets. Thermal regulation prevents overheating by automatically reducing power at temperatures above 85°C.

History & Development

Astera LED Technology developed the NYX Bulb in 2019 as an extension of their wireless lighting series. The German company responded to the growing demand for flexible, battery-powered lighting solutions in filmmaking. In 2020, a firmware update followed with expanded effect programs. The current generation from 2022 offers improved battery performance and more precise color rendering with a CRI of 96.

Practical Use in Film

NYX Bulbs are particularly suitable for practical lights (practicals) in existing lamp sockets on set. During the filming of "The Batman" (2022), DoP Greig Fraser used similar wireless LED bulbs for dynamic interior lighting. The fixtures allow for quick color changes without swapping filters or rewiring. Gaffers often use them as hidden accent lights in props or to simulate screen flicker. Wireless operation eliminates trip hazards and significantly reduces setup times.

Comparison & Alternatives

Unlike conventional practical light bulbs, the NYX Bulb offers full dimming and color control. The Quasar Science Q-LED is brighter at 1,200 lumens but bulkier and more expensive. Philips Hue bulbs achieve similar color diversity but only 800 lumens and are not designed for professional film production. For larger sets with permanent installations, traditional LED panels are more suitable, while NYX Bulbs excel in spontaneous setups and mobile productions.

From the crafts

Perspectives

Cinematographer

Ich schätze die NYX Bulbs besonders für spontane Lichtakzente, wenn ich keine Zeit für aufwändige Rigging-Konstruktionen habe. Die präzise Farbtemperaturkontrolle über die App ermöglicht mir perfektes Color Matching zu anderen LED-Quellen am Set. Allerdings muss ich bei längeren Takes die Akkukapazität im Blick behalten und Ersatzleuchten bereithalten.

Director

Diese kabellosen Bulbs geben mir völlig neue Möglichkeiten für atmosphärische Lichteffekte, besonders in beengten Räumen wo normale Scheinwerfer stören würden. Ich kann während einer Szene die Farbstimmung per App ändern und so emotionale Wendepunkte visuell unterstützen. Die Flexibilität erlaubt mir, auch spontane Ideen am Set sofort umzusetzen.

Producer

NYX Bulbs reduzieren meine Stromkosten und Kabelverlegung erheblich, was bei Location-Drehs Zeit und Geld spart. Mit 450 Euro pro Stück sind sie teurer als normale Practicals, aber die gesparten Arbeitszeiten beim Auf- und Abbau amortisieren die Investition schnell. Ich kalkuliere immer 20% Reserve-Units ein, falls Akkus während langer Drehtage schlapp machen.

More in the lexikon

Related terms

Test your knowledge

Quiz

1. Was beschreibt „Astera NYX Bulb" am besten?

2. Zu welchem Department gehört „Astera NYX Bulb"?

3. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?

Report an error
From the Filmfarm ecosystem

Understand visual language, budget productions, connect crew.

The Lexikon is part of the Filmfarm ecosystem — alongside budgeting (FilmBalance), an industry magazine (FilmCircus) and crew networking (FilmCall, CrewMesh). One shared vocabulary for the whole production.

FilmFarm FilmRadarComing soonFilmPulseComing soonFilmNumbersComing soonFilmCapitalComing soonFilmLabComing soonFilmBalanceComing soonFilmCircusComing soon