Abstract: A source of infrared radiation or an infrared radiator is disclosed for use in surveillance systems, and the like. The infrared radiator comprises a light source for providing a beam containing infrared radiation and a radiation filter disposed in the path of the beam to selectively pass only the infrared radiation. The light source and radiation filter are disposed within an inner housing which is in heat transfer proximity thereto. The inner housing is configured to contain visible light within the inner housing and permit infrared radiation to exit only through the radiation filter. An outer housing having openings formed therein is disposed about the inner housing such that a portion of the outer housing is spaced from the inner housing to define a path for air between the openings. In a preferred embodiment, a cooling means is located within the outer housing to force exterior air along the path, allowing heat absorbed by the inner housing to be dissipated.