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A laser can fool an optical light sensor under the right conditions. In a 2013 Hackaday project, a hobbyist aimed a laser diode at a streetlight sensor and reported that the lamp switched off after about two minutes. That account describes one specific setup—not a reliable or authorized way to control public lighting.
How the laser affected the streetlight
The project, reported by Marsh at Hackaday on October 24, 2013, relied on the streetlight’s optical sensor. The lamp’s sensor faced west, and the builder’s third-floor window was west of the lamp, providing a direct line of sight. Aimed at the sensor, the laser supplied light that could be interpreted as daylight, causing the lamp to switch off. Hackaday’s project report describes the original setup and its light-pollution motivation.
This mechanism depends on a light sensor being exposed to the beam. The report does not show that all streetlights use the same sensor design or respond the same way.
What the 2013 build used
- A 5V 20mA laser diode.
- A custom 3D-printed holder attached to a wall with a mounting bracket, aimed at the streetlight sensor.
- An inexpensive remote-control outlet to switch the laser’s power supply on and off.
Hackaday gave the project’s spare-parts cost as $20 in 2013; that is a historical figure, not a current parts estimate. The report does not establish current prices, availability, or a laser’s safety classification. The project write-up names the components and control arrangement.
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How long the light stayed off
In this builder’s account, the sensor needed about two minutes of laser input before the lamp switched off. The light then remained off for around 30 seconds and took at least one minute to ramp back up. These timings describe the reported streetlight and should not be treated as typical behavior for other models. Hackaday’s timing details are specific to that project.
Why this is not a general streetlight-control method
The documented setup required a direct line of sight to the sensor and a mounting position from which the builder could keep the beam aimed at it. It also altered the operation of public infrastructure. The report does not establish municipal permission, local legality, current laser-safety compliance, or the risks posed by directing a beam near eyes, aircraft, drivers, neighbors, or maintenance workers. Do not assume that reproducing the build is permitted or safe.
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Hackaday’s only explicit caution was: “This is certainly a clever and impressive hack, but—as always—use at your own risk.” That warning is not a safety assessment or authorization to interfere with a streetlight. The original report provides no further legal or regulatory clearance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Safer ways to reduce unwanted light
If a streetlight is shining into a home, address the light entering private space rather than attempting to switch off the public fixture. Options include blackout curtains or blinds, repositioning a bed or desk, or contacting the municipality or utility responsible for the lamp to ask about shielding, aiming, or a fixture issue. These approaches avoid aiming a laser at public infrastructure.
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The report also mentions an earlier light-pollution project that used LED throwies on accessible sensors during a guerrilla drive-in movie. It is historical context, not evidence that attaching anything to a streetlight is generally suitable or authorized. Hackaday’s account describes that example alongside the laser project.
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