LANTERNFISH – SKY QUALITY METER
Measure sky brightness in MPSAS — all key functions in one device
Documentation & resources
Smart, simple, and ready for the night sky
Lanternfish is a compact, easy-to-use device designed for astronomers and observatories who need accurate sky brightness measurements in MPSAS without having to choose between different versions or configurations.
It combines wireless access, reliable data logging and flexible operation in a single device, suitable for both field use and permanent installations.
Visualise your sky measurements in real time
Lanternfish provides immediate access to your measurements through its integrated web interface, allowing you to visualise sky brightness trends and environmental data in real time.
No additional software required — everything is built in.
Everything you need, built in
Standalone Wi-Fi access
Connects directly,
no app or PC needed.
Automatic logging with date and time
Records sky quality
with timestamp.
Live data display via web interface
View MPSAS on device screen or
internal web page.
Night Mode
Automatically runs and powers off
at day.
Flexible configuration
Set your own measurement intervals
and preferences.
JSON data access (API-ready)
Retrieve structured data for integration
or analysis.
Designed to simplify sky quality measurement
Lanternfish combines accurate measurement, autonomous operation and wireless access in a single device designed for real-world use.
- Compact torch-like design for quick and direct sky measurements
- Measurement of sky brightness in MPSAS
- Automatic data logging with date and time
- Wi-Fi access via integrated web server
- Data export in CSV format
- Adjustable measurement modes for different use cases
- Programmable automatic shutdown
- OLED display for direct visualisation
- Rechargeable battery with autonomy lasting several nights (depending on usage mode)
How to use
Point Lanternfish at the sky and take a measurement instantly or using a programmed mode.
The device records data automatically and allows access through its integrated web interface via Wi-Fi. Data can also be exported in CSV format.
Operating modes
Lanternfish offers different measurement modes depending on how you want to use it, from quick individual readings to fully autonomous operation with configurable intervals.
It can be used for immediate measurements or left running overnight, recording data automatically according to the selected configuration.
Access and control your measurements from any device
Lanternfish includes an integrated web interface that allows you to access, configure and manage your measurements directly from any device via Wi-Fi.
No external software or additional hardware is required.
Technical specifications
Lanternfish is designed for reliability and ease of use, combining precise measurement with autonomous operation and low power consumption.
Below are the key technical details.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Measurement Unit | Magnitudes per square arcsecond (MPSAS) * |
| Sensor Type | Light sensor with calibrated spectral response |
| Wi-Fi | Standalone access point, no external network required |
| Data Access | Internal web server and JSON format export |
| Display | OLED screen showing live and stored data |
| Timekeeping | Built-in real-time clock (RTC) with battery backup |
| Data Storage | Internal memory for historical measurements |
| Measurement Interval | Configurable – from 1 minute to several hours |
| Power Supply | USB rechargeable battery |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours of operation on a single charge |
| Automatic Shutdown | Programmable for power saving and night-only use |
| Dimensions | Approx. 135 mm x 28 mm x 28 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 120 g |
| Operating Temperature | -10 °C to 45 °C |
| Software Interface | Embedded web interface, accessible via browser |
| Firmware Updates | Via Wi-Fi connection (OTA updates) |
* MPSAS stands for Magnitudes per Square Arcsecond, a standard unit for measuring night sky brightness. Higher values indicate darker skies.
Lanternfish – Sky Quality Meter
Precise sky brightness measurement in a single, easy-to-use device.