What began as a project to bring light to electricity-challenged communities in developing nations has evolved into a business that lights up the night for backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts unplugged by choice. MPOWERD’s Luci Inflatable Solar Lantern is just what its name implies, only cooler. The 5-inch diameter by 1-inch-thick transparent flexible plastic disk inflates like a beach ball, via breath power, to become a 5-inch-high waterproof cylinder weighing just a few ounces. Inside the bottom of the cylinder, a cluster of bright LED lights is powered by solar-cell panels on the outside. Push the power button on and you’ve got a lantern when the LEDs point up, a flashlight when pointed down (there are straps at both ends). An internal reflective board boosts the brightness. To charge (ahead of time), push the power button off, and place Luci (deflated or not) with the solar panels facing the light — say, outside your tent, on top of your dashboard, by a window or clipped to your backpack. An electric light can charge Luci too, although at a much slower pace than the eight hours required for a full charge in bright sunlight. Once charged, Luci will provide light for six to eight continuous hours and retains power for months when stored. You get a choice of styles. Original Lucy has bright, brighter and flash modes, while Luci EMRG adds an SOS function but has fewer, more concentrated LEDs. Both can be great emergency lights for motorists and globe-trotters without access to a reliable flashlight. Just partying? Luci Lux has a frosted finish for a diffused glow. Lucy Color can be set to eight different hues or can cycle through them all. Not for reading.
MPOWERD Luci Inflatable Solar Lantern Original is $15; EMRG, $10; Lux, $20; and color, $25; from .
Judi Dash, Gear & Gadgets syndicate
