The Norwegian National Opera was ceremoniously opened on the 12th of April 2008 after a five-year construction period. The highlight of the impressive structure is a huge chandelier - the largest in Norway. A total of 1,250 OSRAM LINEARlight DRAGON LED modules are integrated in this extraordinary luminaire, which is the main light source of the great auditorium. "Using special dimmers, the luminous intensity of the LED modules can be individually adjusted for highly diverse lighting situations. We are thrilled to give visitors to the opera such a sense of awe and amazement with our decorative and powerful LED," explains Dr. Klaus Ziemssen, Head of the LED Systems Business Unit at OSRAM.

Measuring seven metres in diameter and weighing over eight tonnes, the innovative chandelier is a feast for the eyes in two respects: impressive in both form and size, it fits in perfectly with the architecture of the opera theatre, while simultaneously ensuring a perfectly illuminated auditorium. This is evidenced by the fact that, despite being 16 metres above the floor, the chandelier still produces a luminous intensity of 300 Lux at floor-level, giving a splendid atmosphere that puts visitors in the right mood for the opera.

Innovative LED modules for special requirements

The ambient lighting with LED modules is completely new in this form. Each OSRAM LINEARlight-DRAGON features six individual LED giving a combined output of twelve watts. The light-emitting diodes use innovative thin-film technology for a brighter light emission than ordinary semiconductor luminaires. The high number of tightly packed LED modules necessitated a special heat-sink design for the chandelier in Oslo's new opera theatre. By simulating the thermal conditions, the designers were able to develop an optimised, passive cooling concept that allows the small light sources to reach their enormous service life of up to 70,000 hours. A further challenge was presented by the shape of the chandelier. To ensure that the rounded surfaces were also perfectly illuminated, OSRAM additionally developed a special version of the LINEARlight-DRAGON LED module.

Glittering inauguration

The guest list at the opening of the Norwegian National Opera House - with its 100-plus rooms and three auditoriums - not only included the Icelandic and Finnish prime ministers and representatives from Scandinavian royal families, but also the German chancellor, Angela Merkel. Referring to the new opera, she spoke of an architectural highlight in the history of European architecture. With the scene set by OSRAM technology, audiences are treated to a celebration of space that leaves a lasting impression: in short, a lustrous framework for illustrious entertainment.