On Oct. 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1, the first Earth-orbiting artificial satellite, into space and marked the beginning of what would soon be known as the Sputnik Program.

Aside from paving the way in satellite technology, the Sputnik-1 also became a design inspiration. It’s polished aluminum-magnesium-titanium covered orb and four long, jutting, whip-like antennas became the foundation of the lighting trend now known as the Sputnik lamp.

Sputnik lamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes and usually have anywhere between eight to 24 arms stemming from its center orb. Some have half-chrome cylindrical light bulbs, others have glass star light bulbs. No matter what the configuration of the lamp, a Sputnik is hard to miss.

Recently,  a good friend of mine sent me photos of her recently acquired Sputnik lamp. It was found in her grandfather’s garage and is unlike any Sputnik I have ever seen.

At the end of each arm is a colorful gem that almost looks like rock candy. It truly is a sight to behold. It was shipped in pieces and then carefully reconstructed.

I love the way the light is placed close to the center so you can still see the bulbs, and the colors are out of this world! I would love to see it in all its rainbow glory with the lights out. I bet it’s an amazing ocular show!

If you are renovating your home or office and looking for some truly unique lights, these fantastic Lightolier lights might be for you!

A listing popped up for 24 of these gems on Craigslist. Here’s what the owner had to say:

I have 24 (really 27, but I am missing 3 glass inserts) unique lights from the 1950’s. These just came out of an old bowling alley in Norfolk that was built in 1958. These are recessed lights and are sold as is. I strongly recommend rewiring for safety. As you can image, the condition varies on each light–all in all they are dirty, but in great vintage condition. I cleaned one and photographed it so you could see the potential. I think they would look amazing with colored lights!!!

They are approx. 24 x 24 and the recessed part is about 6′ tall- hard to get an exact measurement. The ‘tub’ is metal, the ’star’ is plastic, and the center ’star’ is glass.

Great for your atomic retro home, office, or business–Pretty sure they don’t make these any more.
I am asking $40.00-50.00 per light-depending on condition- you can take one or all. I know it is a drive to Chesapeake, so please feel free to call or email 757-651-9925 Thanks, Meg

It’s not very often that you find a whole cache of vintage lighting, so if you need a bunch of it (even if you have to drive an hour to Chesapeake), you better act fast!

Lightolier has been producing high-quality lights since 1904 and continues to do so today. Many of their older designs can be found in the Museum of Modern Art. So you’re not just buying a light, you’re buying a piece of art. The company’s mid-century lines are highly collectible.

These pieces are a great example of the quality and style expected of this century-old company and would add mid-century character and charm to any home or office. Besides, where are you going to find lights this cool for $40?