Abstract: A collapsible illumination system consists of an expandable lamp shade compartment with an integrated solar-cell, battery, and LED in the flap of the shade. The solar cell charges the battery in daylight. In darkness the translucent lamp shade can be opened to diffuse the LED, which illuminates the space interior to the shade compartment. Reflective material within the lamp shade compartment enhances the illumination. The collapsible illumination system can be incorporated as part of clothing, bags, or other types of gear. Using a light colored shade provides lantern-like lighting for camping or other outdoor activity, while using a red or orange shade with a flashing LED provides extra visibility for pedestrians or cyclists.