Have you ever wondered how glow in the dark stars work? Discover the secret behind their luminous magic.

The Power of Phosphors:

At the heart of glow in the dark stars are special substances known as phosphors. They're not only used in glow stars but phosphors are also in tv, computer screens and other lighting. Some of these phosphors possess an amazing ability to absorb light energy and later release it as a gentle glow. Think of them as tiny energy reservoirs just waiting to shine!

Phosphors can be either fluorescent or phosphorescent type substances. Fluorescent substances radiate energy immediately upon exposure to light, such as UV light, but stop glowing once the light source is removed. The fluorescent 'fast emission of light' type is found in fluorescent light bulbs and bright neon colourful fluorescent paints.

Phosphorescent substances like glow in the dark crystals and paint have a slower delayed emission of light. After being exposed to light energy, they continue to radiate light even after the light source is turned off.

You might have noticed that even the phosphors found in fluorescent lights can be seen to glow for a fraction after you switch a light off. 

Charged with Light:

To activate the glow, glow in the dark stars need to be charged with light. When you expose them to a light source, such as natural sunlight or artificial light, the phosphors soak up the light energy like a sponge soaking up water. Technically the little molecules in their atomic structure have become excited or activated to start moving at higher energy levels. 

Energy Storage:

Once the little powerhouse phosphors have absorbed the light energy, they hold onto it tightly within their atomic structure and stay at a higher activated level until the lights go out and darkness takes over. 

The Glow:

When it gets dark, the tiny molecules return to their previous lower energy level. The stored energy within the phosphors is gradually released as light. The stars come alive! 

Glow Duration:

The duration of the glow depends on factors like the quality of the glow-in-the-dark product and the amount of light it absorbed during the charging process. Higher-quality stars store more energy, resulting in a longer-lasting glow.

Charging Methods:

You might also be wondering how to best charge glow in the dark stars. It's easy! Natural light sources, like sunlight, work really well. Put your stars in a room with a window during the day to allow them to absorb the sun's energy. Or, artificial light sources such as lamps, ceiling lights or flashlights can also charge them really well.

Fluorescent lights, CFLs, bright LEDs are recommended. UV tubes and black lights can also be used but these are not ideal for use in kid's bedrooms. 
Incandescent bulbs do not charge well and are not recommended.

Recharging:

You will find your stars are less bright towards the morning time, but don't worry! You can easily recharge them. Expose the stars to light again, and they will eagerly soak up the energy to regain their glow.

Glow in the dark stars bring magic to any space. Through the power of phosphors and the interplay of light and darkness, they create an amazing glow that can transform your surroundings into a starry dreamworld. So, whether you're wanting to stargaze in your own bedroom or adding a starry dreamscape to a child's room, let the glow of stars illuminate your home!

Try some out!