Abstract: The invention relates to a wideband illumination device comprising a plurality of semiconductor light sources arranged in a field as a light source, for obtaining a specified light distribution for a vehicle headlight in different operating conditions. Parts of the semiconductor light sources are able to emit light in the visible wavelength region, while others emit light in the non-visible wavelength region. In an especially advantageous manner, individual optical elements are associated with the semiconductor light sources, either individually or in groups, for the targeted production of different radiation characteristics. One such wideband illumination device can be used to create a compact individual headlight by which means both the immediate vicinity and the main beam region in front of a motor vehicle can be illuminated with visible light. The same headlight can also be used to provide light in the non-visible region for using with systems for improving night vision.