Abstract: A signal light comprising an elongate translucent tubular member formed of a light plastic material having a light source disposed therein for emitting illumination therefrom and providing guidance and orientation to aircraft and the like. A battery and a light bulb comprising a light source are housed entirely within the tubular member. A flush mounted switch is recessed entirely within a predetermined end of the tubular member to control an electrical connection between the battery and the light source. The signal light has a smooth continuous outer surface to provide structural rigidity and enable its use for visual signalling during both daytime and nighttime.

Abstract: An RF-transparent sunshield membrane covers an antenna reflector such as a parabolic dish. The membrane includes a single dielectric sheet of polyimide film 1 mil thick. The surface of the film facing away from the reflector is coated with a layer of semiconductor material such as vapor-deposited germanium having a thickness in the range of 200 .ANG. to 600 .ANG.. In another embodiment of the invention, the surface of the film facing the reflector may be reinforced by an adhesively attached polyester or glass fiber mesh.

Abstract: An improved composite material which overcomes the moisture problem associated with other composite materials includes a protective waterproof coating of material such as a poly-para-xylylene over the composite material.