The Sky Factory has introduced Programmable SkyCeilings. This new virtual skylight recreates and simulates the rising and setting of the sun; in addition to its aesthetic value, this appears to have an application in regulating circadian rhythm.

Fairfield, IA TBD - The Programmable SkyCeiling creates an enhanced illusion of nature by introducing changes of light and color, in real-time. The programmable features allow SkyCeilings to increase and decrease in light intensity and color to simulate the local rising and setting of the sun - even following the seasons. A small computerized control-device that can be programmed for any geographic area is responsible for producing the many subtle changes of the system.

By respecting the body's circadian rhythms, the Programmable SkyCeiling can function as a healing tool.

Dr. Michael Hastings, from the Medical Research Council Laboratory for Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, discovered that deterioration in the condition of dementia patients could be slowed down by 5% through utilizing light therapy and the body's natural cycle (circadian rhythm). Hastings explains that one of the difficult dementia symptoms to cope with is irregular sleep patterns due to a disrupted circadian rhythm. He believes that light therapy may also have application elsewhere because other neurological diseases, such as Huntington's and Parkinson's, are linked with the disruption of circadian rhythm.

The Sky Factory has received reports from facilities housing Alzheimer and dementia patients where SkyCeilings appear to be producing significant benefits. The sky Factory is committed to supporting a program of scientific research to fully evaluate these subjective observations.

Multiple applications
The programmed dimming feature of SkyCeilings increases both ascetic appeal and real benefits to human physiology and well-being. For example, in an ICU the body's circadian rhythm can be reinforced to help healing. An "opposite" use of this technology can occur in a nurse's station where an environment of alertness can be created during the middle of the night. Other applications, including shortened or dramatic cycles, extend to casinos, restaurants, home theaters, and other healthcare and hospitality environments.

How it works
The Programmable SkyCeiling uses the same Sky-lighting™ as our original SkyCeiling. Sky-Lighting is a combination of accurate graphic information and full-spectrum 6500 Kelvin light. In this case Sky-lighting includes the added dimension of real-time. Further, the bi-color Programmable SkyCeiling is enhanced by a DALI controlled (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) light source that adds the color of sunrise and sunset - or, for those who wish, the drama of theatrical moonlight. Control of the programmable system can be manual or by means of personal computer or smart system technology.