The Aviolights Tail Star is a combined white rear position (navigation) light and strobe system.Like the Red Eye, it is a "monolith" design with the controller integrated into the lamp, making it popular for UK microlight and LAA aircraft (like the Ikarus C42 or Eurofox) where space and weight are at a premium.
There are two primary models based on the mounting orientation, followed by several electronic options.
1. Physical Model Options
Tail Star 140 (Horizontal): Designed for horizontal installation on the tail or trailing edge of a rudder.It provides a 140° light angle, satisfying standard rear position light requirements.
Tail Star 360 (Vertical): Designed for vertical installation (e.g., atop a vertical stabiliser). This version provides a full 360° horizontal strobe visibility while maintaining the white rear position light function.
2. Voltage & Synchronization Options
Aviolights typically offers these in three main electronic configurations:
Standard (12V - 15V)
Range: 11.8V to 14.8V.
Use Case: The most common version for aircraft with standard 12V lead-acid or LiFePO4 batteries.
Current Draw: Low average draw, but requires a 0.5 8$mm^2$ cable to handle the 2.5A to 3.4A peak during the strobe flash.
Wide Voltage (12V - 30V)
Range: Works across both 12V and 24V systems.
Use Case: Ideal if you have a 24V electrical system or want a unit that is more resilient to voltage spikes. It is more efficient on 24V systems as it draws roughly half the peak current compared to the 12V version.
With vs. Without Synchronization (w/o Synchro)
With Sync: Includes a yellow or white wire used to connect the Tail Star to your wingtip strobes (like the Navigator series). This ensures the tail and wings flash at the exact same moment for a professional, "factory" look.
Without Sync: A standalone unit. It will flash at its internal frequency (approx. 120 flashes/min) regardless of what other lights are doing. It is simpler to wire (3 wires instead of 4).
3. Operational Modes
The Tail Star features independent wiring for the two functions, allowing you to use it in three ways:
Position Light Only: Steady white light (approx. 450 lumens).
Strobe Only: High-intensity flashing white (2000 lumens).
Combined: Steady white position light with high-intensity flashes overlaid.
