Abstract: The method of producing optical radiation and a discharge lamp for that purpose pertain to electrical technology, specifically to methods of producing radiation in the visible spectrum resulting from electrical discharge in gas, and to low-pressure discharge lighting lamps of various types. The proposed method of producing optical radiation, and the associated discharge lamp, extend the available range of environmentally clean lighting systems. The method involves creating a gas discharge in an inert gas atmosphere with a radiating additive in an optically transparent tube. A novelty of the method lies in the use as a radiating additive of the HO radical. The discharge lamp comprises an optically transparent tube (1) filled with an inert gas and a radiating additive. Also novel is the use as a radiating additive of an HO source obtainable from water or group II metal alkalis.