Those red lights at great heights make the sky safer to fly

They burn at night like red fireflies, their gentle blinking strangely soothing for something designed to prevent aviation catastrophes. Known in the dry professional lingo as aviation warning beacons (although, really, red fireflies is so much more poetic), the beacons warn pilots of what lies below—usually buildings, broadcast transmission masts, and anything else they need to stay away from.

The bulbs are about eight inches long and burn at 620 watts, fairly unspectacular looking, like Christmas tree lights on steroids. Dozens of them are found at the highest points of the UI campus, alerting pilots flying into the Iowa City Airport or the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics’ helipad.

Fiddlers on roofs! Funk and blues! Ballet shoes! Hancher announces its 2010–11 season

Hancher continues its commitment to connecting great artists with great audiences both locally and around the state with the announcement of the University of Iowa organization's 2010–2011 season.

The "Can't Contain Us!" spirit once again infuses the season as Hancher will present world-class artists in venues throughout the community and the state.

Photo feature: Gold dome shines in the summer sun

Old Capitol stars in this summery look at the University of Iowa campus.

See the photos...

Recent features

Guidelines offer UI employees advice on reaping the benefits (and avoiding the risks) of social media

Saying thanks to Iowa Hall on its silver anniversary

Hats off to staff, faculty for their commencement efforts

Staff Council president Seaton embraces role of communication conduit for administration, staff

UI alumnus and faculty member Paul Harding wins Pulitzer Prize

Recent photo features

Have a look at the new State Hygienic Laboratory

Lady Pink works with UI artists

Nature's minuscule masterpieces, courtesy of Central Microscopy

Key Shop makes the cut

Have a story idea?

The fyi staff welcomes story ideas from University faculty and staff. Share
your suggestions with the editors at fyi-mail@uiowa.edu; or 300 PCO,
Suite 370; or by fax to 384-0055.

fyi archives

Previous issues of fyi are available online. See list of back issues.