An inventive stand-up paddleboarder from Slovenia has developed a powerful underwater lamp that illuminates the seabed at night, enhancing the paddleboarding experience by allowing users to explore aquatic life up to 25 meters deep.
- 90,000 lumens spotlight reveals seabed down to 25 meters
- Device controlled wirelessly via smartphone app
- Battery supports 3.5 hours of continuous use
What happened
Jure Korber, mechanical and electrical engineer from Celje, Slovenia, crafted a unique underwater lamp designed specifically for stand-up paddleboarding at night. Recognizing the appeal of being able to see beneath the water’s surface, he built a rugged yet hydrodynamic device that mounts under the paddleboard. The lamp incorporates 36 LEDs configured in six rows, providing a customizable lighting experience with wireless control through an app.
The prototype produces an impressive 90,000 lumens, lighting the seabed down roughly 20 to 25 meters (66 to 82 feet) in clear waters. Its CNC-machined aluminum body acts as a heat sink to manage temperature, and a hardwired lithium-ion battery pack powers it for about 3.5 hours at maximum brightness. The setup is streamlined enough to cause minimal drag, letting Korber paddle slowly while fully immersing in the nighttime underwater views.
Why it feels good
Korber’s innovation changes the perception of night paddling by illuminating underwater landscapes more clearly than daytime surface light reflections. This connection to a hidden aquatic world brings a fresh sense of discovery and tranquil enjoyment to water enthusiasts who prefer the calm and cooler conditions after sunset.
By enabling detailed observation of marine life and seabed features, the light fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment beneath the waves. It transforms a recreational activity into a gentle exploration, making night paddleboarding safer and more engaging while supporting curiosity about underwater ecosystems.
What to enjoy or watch next
Korber is considering producing a limited run of the lamp in less intense, more affordable versions due to growing interest. Additionally, he plans to integrate underwater cameras like a GoPro to document the vibrant scenes his light reveals, further enhancing the experience with visual recordings.
Paddleboarding enthusiasts and marine explorers can look forward to new gear options that brighten nighttime trips while respecting the tranquility of aquatic environments. Innovations like this suggest a future where water sports meld seamlessly with nature appreciation and technology-driven adventure.