Luci Della Ribalta (LDR) has moved its widely adopted ASTRO 250 LED followspot range into a new MK2 generation, reinforcing the series’ reputation for reliability and user-focused engineering while responding directly to feedback from the field. Since the first 200W ASTRO models launched in 2014, the range has steadily expanded in response to demand for greater output and longer throw performance, with the 250 series arriving in 2017, followed by the 250HP and 600 ranges in 2020. Across successive generations, LDR’s development philosophy has remained rooted in listening to end-users, a process that has seen ASTRO followspots specified for high-profile installations across all five continents.

The ASTRO 250 range has been particularly well regarded for its compact and stylish form factor, optical performance, smooth and precise digital dimming, cold fixture behaviour in standby mode and constant colour temperature across all light intensities. With the MK2 update, LDR has focused on raising construction quality further, introducing a redesigned stirrup system that mirrors the bracket used on the ASTRO 600.

This update emerged through close collaboration with Bradley Jeffrey of Lancashire-based distributor Prolight Concepts (UK) Ltd, following feedback from a potential customer. The revised bracket delivers improved balance and control, directly addressing concerns around rigidity and movement stability. “The result is a significant improvement in the control and balance of the fixture: ASTRO 250 is now ready to handle even the most demanding installations — and the potential customer has now become a happy customer,” says Lisa Papi, Managing Director of Luci Della Ribalta (LDR).

LDR’s R&D department moved quickly to redesign multiple components to accommodate the new bracket, with the first four ASTRO 250 MK2 units already shipped to the UK and additional units available off the shelf for immediate dispatch. Reflecting on the development process,

Bradley Jeffrey confirms the collaborative approach: “Last month we demoed the Luci Della Ribalta Astro 250 for a customer. They loved the fixture, but felt the bracket had a little too much flex. LDR immediately responded to our customer’s request, and together we worked to develop an improved bracket. We decided it would be beneficial to make it more like the ASTRO 600, which can be used with a fluid head, making the whole system much more versatile”.

With the MK2 update, the ASTRO 250 now delivers significantly smoother tilt movement from top to bottom, while remaining completely stable once locked in position, with no trace of wobble. These refinements are particularly impactful in applications where precision, cleanliness of movement and operator confidence are critical.

Looking ahead, LDR views the MK2 update as a natural extension of its user-led development approach. The company notes that the opportunity to refine the ASTRO 250 range has strengthened its product offering further, with confidence that the new feature set will continue to expand the already extensive list of professional venues worldwide relying on ASTRO followspots.