An illuminator, which may be an infrared illuminator, has an array of LEDs. The
LEDs are mounted to an apertured substrate. Air flow through apertures in the substrate
cools the LEDs. A fan forces air through the apertures. A collimating plate reduces
divergence of a light beam issuing from the LEDs. The illuminator is suitable for
long range illumination, for example in night vision systems or surveillance systems.
An infrared illuminator may be combined with an infrared camera to provide a night
vision system.
