12 Best Outdoor Step Lights (July 2026) Expert Reviews

Every year, thousands of homeowners face preventable injuries from slips and falls on poorly lit outdoor stairs. I learned this lesson the hard way when my father-in-law took a tumble on our back deck steps one evening. That incident pushed me to test dozens of outdoor step lighting solutions over the past 8 months, from budget solar options to premium hardwired systems. If you are searching for the best outdoor step lights to keep your family safe while enhancing your home's curb appeal, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Our team installed and monitored 12 different step lighting systems through rain, snow, and summer heat. We measured actual brightness output, tracked battery performance, and evaluated installation difficulty. The result is this comprehensive comparison of solar deck lights, LED stair lights, and low voltage step lighting options that actually deliver on their promises in 2026.

Whether you need lights for concrete steps, wooden decks, or front porch stairs, I will walk you through the top performers that combine safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Let us look at my top recommendations first.

Top 3 Picks for Best Outdoor Step Lights

Best Outdoor Step Lights in 2026

Before diving into detailed reviews, here is a quick comparison of all 12 products I tested. This table shows the key specifications at a glance to help you narrow down your options based on your specific needs.

1. VOLISUN Solar Stair Lights - 80 Lumens of Corner-Fit Brilliance

I installed the VOLISUN lights on my front porch steps in late fall, right before the rainy season hit. The triangular design immediately stood out as a smart feature. Unlike bulky rectangular lights that stick up and create tripping hazards, these nestle neatly into the corners where the riser meets the tread.

The 80-lumen output was noticeably brighter than the cheaper solar options I had tested previously. When I measured with a light meter at 3 feet distance, these delivered consistent illumination that actually helped identify step edges after dark. The warm 3000K color temperature created an inviting glow without the harsh blue tint that some LED lights produce.

After 6 months of testing through rain, frost, and occasional snow, the IP67 rating proved legitimate. IP67 means complete dust protection and the ability to withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep. I never submerged them intentionally, but heavy downpours and standing water on the steps caused no issues.

The 800mAh battery capacity translates to reliable all-night lighting during summer months. In winter, expect 6-7 hours of runtime on a full charge rather than the full 8 hours. The key is placement. South-facing steps with direct sunlight exposure charge fully by mid-afternoon. North-facing or heavily shaded areas will see reduced performance.

Best for South-Facing Steps with Direct Sunlight

These lights excel on steps that receive 4-6 hours of direct daily sunlight. The large solar panel surface area combined with efficient LED conversion makes them ideal for homeowners who want reliable wire-free installation without the premium price of hardwired systems. If your steps face south or west and get unobstructed sun, the VOLISUN offers the best balance of brightness, durability, and value.

Installation takes about 10 minutes per light. The included adhesive tape works well on painted wood or composite decking, but I recommend the screw mounting for concrete or stone steps. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the company responded promptly when I contacted them with a technical question about winter performance.

Not Ideal for Heavily Shaded Areas

If your steps sit under dense tree cover or on the north side of your home, these solar lights will struggle to charge sufficiently. You might get 2-3 hours of dim light on cloudy winter days. In these scenarios, consider the hardwired options later in this guide or the motion-sensor Aootek lights that conserve battery by only activating when needed.

2. SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights - Best Seller for Ambient Lighting

The SOLPEX lights hold the top sales position on Amazon for good reason. At under $25 for a 16-pack, they represent the most affordable entry point into outdoor step lighting. I installed these along my fence line and garden path to test their decorative capabilities.

Let me be clear about expectations. These are not safety lights. The 2-lumen output provides ambient accent lighting similar to pathway markers. You will see where the lights are, but they will not illuminate step edges sufficiently for safe navigation in complete darkness. Think of them as decorative rather than functional.

The warm white color temperature creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for backyard entertaining. The brown ABS plastic shell blends naturally with wooden decks and fences, unlike black or silver alternatives that stand out visually. Each light measures just 3.46 inches long and 1.85 inches high, making them nearly invisible during daylight hours.

Installation requires only two small screws per light. The lightweight design means you can mount them on fence posts, deck railings, or stair risers without worrying about structural support. I completed the full 16-light installation in under 45 minutes.

Best for Decorative Fence and Pathway Accent

These lights shine as accent markers along garden paths, fence lines, and deck perimeters where ambiance matters more than illumination. If you already have adequate overhead lighting or path lighting and want to add visual interest without breaking the bank, the SOLPEX delivers exceptional value.

The 16-pack configuration allows you to light an entire deck perimeter or long garden path at roughly $1.50 per light. That is difficult to beat for budget-conscious homeowners who want to enhance their outdoor space aesthetically.

Not Suitable as Primary Step Safety Lighting

If your goal is preventing trips and falls on stairs, these 2-lumen lights will disappoint. The output is roughly 1/40th the brightness of the 80-lumen VOLISUN lights. Use these for decoration alongside brighter primary lighting, not as your sole step illumination source.

3. AUDLES Solar Step Lights - Reliable 8-Hour Runtime

The AUDLES lights share many specifications with the VOLISUN model, including the 80-lumen output and triangular design. During my testing, they performed nearly identically in terms of brightness and runtime. The primary difference comes in the IP rating. IP65 versus IP67 means protection against water jets rather than full immersion.

For most residential applications, IP65 is perfectly adequate. Heavy rain and splashing from garden hoses will not damage these lights. Only consider the IP67 upgrade if your steps regularly flood or sit in standing water during storms.

The 800mAh battery reliably delivered 8+ hours of light during my spring and summer testing. Winter performance dropped to 5-6 hours on overcast days, which is typical for solar lights in this category. The polycrystalline solar panel provides decent charging efficiency at a budget-friendly price point.

I particularly appreciated the customer feedback mentioning 4+ year lifespans. While my testing only covered 8 months, the construction quality suggests these will outlast cheaper alternatives. The 2-year warranty provides backup protection if premature failure occurs.

Best for Wide Steps Requiring Corner Placement

Wide stairs over 6 feet benefit from corner-mounted lighting that illuminates from both sides. The AUDLES triangular design fits unobtrusively into these corners while casting light across the full tread width. If you have 8-foot steps like one reviewer mentioned, these lights provide excellent coverage when placed strategically.

Consider Two Lights Per Step for Maximum Safety

On wider stairs or for elderly family members who need maximum visibility, consider installing two lights per step, one on each side. The 6-pack covers three steps with dual lighting or six steps with single lights. Plan your purchase quantity based on your specific stair configuration and safety requirements.

4. GIGALUMI Solar Deck Lights - Budget 16-Pack Value

The GIGALUMI 16-pack offers the lowest per-light cost in this entire guide at roughly $1.25 each. I tested these on my back deck stairs to evaluate their value proposition against the slightly more expensive alternatives.

The 200-lumen rating refers to total output across all lights in the pack, meaning each individual light produces approximately 12-13 lumens. This places them between the ambient SOLPEX lights and the brighter 80-lumen safety lights in terms of output.

Runtime proved shorter than advertised. While the product description claims all-night lighting, my testing showed 4-5 hours of useful output after a full summer day of charging. Winter performance dropped to 2-3 hours. The smaller battery capacity and less efficient solar panel explain this discrepancy.

However, for decorative applications where you only need lighting during evening hours rather than all night, these perform adequately. The warm white color temperature creates pleasant ambiance for outdoor dinners and gatherings.

Best for Large Projects on Tight Budgets

If you need to light a long fence line, extensive deck perimeter, or multiple stair sections without spending a fortune, the GIGALUMI 16-pack stretches your dollar furthest. The quality is acceptable for the price, though expect some unit failures based on the 6-month warranty and customer reviews mentioning early defects.

Consider Spare Units for Replacements

Given the budget nature of these lights and reports of some units failing within weeks, treat the 16-pack as potentially providing 12-14 functional long-term lights. Install any questionable units in easily accessible locations for simple replacement if needed.

5. NIORSUN Solar Step Lights Warm White - Premium IP67 Protection

NIORSUN offers two variants of their popular solar step lights, and this warm white version consistently impressed me with its build quality. The IP67 rating provides the highest waterproof protection available in consumer solar step lighting, making these ideal for coastal areas or regions with heavy rainfall.

The 3000K warm white color temperature strikes the perfect balance for residential applications. It is warm enough to feel inviting yet bright enough for safety. During my testing, these lights activated reliably at dusk and provided consistent illumination through 10 PM on full charges.

The triangular housing measures 3.15 inches on each side, fitting neatly into step corners without protruding into the walking path. This unobtrusive design received positive comments from guests who noticed the illumination without identifying the source until pointed out.

Installation flexibility is a strong point. The included 3M adhesive tape works for smooth surfaces, while the screw mounting option handles rougher materials. I found the tape held securely through summer heat but recommend screws for permanent installation in freeze-thaw climates.

Best for Harsh Weather Climates

If you live in an area with severe winters, heavy rainfall, or coastal salt exposure, the IP67 rating makes these lights worth the slight premium over IP65 alternatives. The full waterproof protection ensures longevity in conditions that damage lesser lights. One reviewer reported excellent performance through UK winter weather that destroyed previous solar lights.

Strategic Placement Required

Like all solar lights, these require thoughtful placement for optimal performance. They need to be positioned where steps are quite dark before activation occurs. If your steps receive ambient light from streetlamps or house fixtures, the auto-on sensor may delay activation or not trigger at all.

6. JOFIOS Solar Step Lights - 12-Pack with 100 Lumens

The JOFIOS lights stand out with their 100-lumen output, the highest among the pure solar step lights in this guide. The extra 20 lumens compared to the 80-lumen competition creates noticeably brighter step edges, particularly helpful for older users or those with vision concerns.

My testing confirmed the all-night runtime claims during summer months. Even after 10 hours of darkness, these lights maintained useful brightness levels. The larger battery capacity and efficient LED design make this possible, though winter performance predictably decreases with shorter charging days.

The 12-pack configuration hits a sweet spot for medium-sized projects. It covers 6 steps with dual-sided lighting or 12 steps with single lights, making it ideal for typical residential decks and porches. The warm brown housing color provides a more natural appearance than black plastic alternatives.

The IP67 rating ensures durability through harsh conditions. I subjected these to heavy rainfall and sub-freezing temperatures without issue. The ABS+PC construction material resists UV degradation better than pure ABS, preventing the yellowing and brittleness that affects cheaper lights after sun exposure.

Best for Maximum Brightness from Solar Power

If you want the brightest solar-powered step lighting available without switching to hardwired systems, the JOFIOS 100-lumen output leads this category. The extra brightness justifies the slightly higher price point for safety-critical applications or wider steps where light spread matters.

Geographic Performance Variations

Solar light performance varies significantly by location. Users in southern states with abundant year-round sun will see dramatically better results than those in northern climates with short winter days. Consider your latitude and typical weather patterns when evaluating solar versus hardwired options.

7. NIORSUN Outdoor Stair Lights Daylight - Alternative Color Option

This second NIORSUN variant offers essentially identical specifications to the warm white version but with a different daylight color temperature profile. The 3000K warm white remains consistent, though some users report slightly different activation timing due to sensor calibration variations between production batches.

During my parallel testing of both NIORSUN models, I observed nearly identical performance in brightness, runtime, and durability. The enlarged rectangular solar panel mentioned in specifications actually measures slightly larger than competing triangular designs, providing marginally better charging efficiency in low-light conditions.

The high-strength ABS material withstands physical impacts that would crack cheaper plastics. I accidentally dropped one light from 4 feet onto concrete during installation, and it functioned perfectly afterward with only cosmetic scuffing. This durability bodes well for long-term reliability.

Customer support responsiveness impressed me during testing. When I contacted the company with a hypothetical warranty question, they responded within 24 hours with clear replacement procedures. This level of support is rare in the budget lighting category.

Best for Users Wanting Backup Options

If you are deciding between this and the other NIORSUN variant, either choice delivers excellent results. Consider purchasing one pack of each if you have two separate stair sections to light, then compare performance and color preference before committing to larger quantities.

Physical Space Considerations

The triangular design, while generally unobtrusive, does occupy the corner space where you might otherwise place potted plants or decorations. Measure your step corners before ordering to ensure these fit without interfering with existing deck elements or walking paths.

8. Aootek Solar Motion Sensor Lights - 800 Lumens of Security

The Aootek lights occupy a unique category within step lighting. With 800 lumens output, they deliver 10 times the brightness of standard solar step lights. I installed these on my garage side entrance where security concerns outweigh pure aesthetic considerations.

The three lighting modes provide flexibility that pure step lights lack. Mode 1 activates full brightness on motion detection, conserving battery while providing security illumination. Mode 2 provides dim constant light that brightens on motion. Mode 3 stays at medium brightness all night regardless of motion.

The 120-degree motion detection angle covers a wide area, though placement matters significantly. Mount these at recommended heights of 6-8 feet for optimal detection range. On step applications, the lower mounting height reduces detection distance to roughly 15-20 feet rather than the claimed 26 feet.

The 270° wide-angle light spread eliminates dark spots that narrow-beam lights create. On my test installation, three Aootek lights provided complete coverage of a 12-foot wide driveway entrance that would have required 6-8 standard step lights for equivalent visibility.

Best for Security-Focused Applications

If your primary concern is deterring intruders or illuminating dark walkways for safety rather than decorative ambiance, the Aootek motion sensor approach makes sense. The bright activation startles potential threats while conserving battery during inactive periods. These work well on front steps, side entrances, and garage approaches.

Not Ideal for Constant Ambient Lighting

The 30-second activation timeout, while adjustable on some competing models, is fixed on the Aootek lights. For entertaining areas where you want constant warm lighting throughout the evening, choose a different option. The motion-activated approach creates intermittent lighting that interrupts conversational ambiance.

9. XLUX Solar Lights with Metal Housing - Durable Construction

Most solar step lights use ABS plastic housings that degrade under UV exposure over 2-3 years. The XLUX lights differentiate themselves with stainless steel construction that resists corrosion, physical damage, and sun degradation. This metal housing justifies the moderate price premium for long-term installations.

The warm white light output measures approximately 30 lumens according to my testing, placing it between the ambient decorative lights and the brighter 80-lumen safety options. The non-glaring diffused lens spreads light evenly without creating harsh hotspots that cause eye strain when walking.

The mono-crystalline solar panel provides superior charging efficiency compared to polycrystalline alternatives common in budget lights. In side-by-side testing, the XLUX lights charged faster and maintained longer runtimes under identical conditions. The replaceable AA Ni-MH battery design extends product lifespan since you can swap batteries when capacity degrades rather than discarding the entire unit.

Installation requires more precision than other options due to the keyhole mounting slots. The included adhesive templates help position screws correctly, but measurement and level alignment take extra time. Plan for 15-20 minutes per light rather than the 5-minute installations of adhesive-only alternatives.

Best for Long-Term Durability Focus

If you plan to stay in your home for 5+ years and want lighting that will last without replacement, the metal construction and replaceable batteries make the XLUX a smart investment. The 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors, but the build quality suggests these will outlast plastic alternatives regardless.

Challenging Installation Requires Patience

The keyhole mounting system frustrates some users who expect quick installation. If you are not comfortable with precise measurements or lack a level, consider the adhesive-mounted alternatives. However, the secure mounting pays off in long-term stability, particularly in windy or high-traffic areas.

10. LIANGLOME Solar Fence Lights - 3 Color Temperature Options

The LIANGLOME lights offer something unique among solar step options: selectable color temperature. You can choose between 2700K warm white for cozy ambiance, 4000K neutral white for balanced visibility, or 6000K cool white for maximum perceived brightness and security applications.

I tested all three modes during different scenarios. The warm setting created perfect atmosphere for evening entertaining. The neutral setting provided excellent visibility for daily use without harshness. The cool setting maximized perceived brightness for safety-critical applications like front entrances.

The IP44 rating is lower than IP65 or IP67 alternatives, meaning protection against splashing water but not heavy rain or submersion. Install these under covered porches or with additional weather protection for best results. Direct exposure to heavy downpours may eventually cause water ingress.

The 8-pack quantity suits medium projects well. The compact 5.55-inch length fits fence posts, stair risers, and deck railings without overwhelming the mounting surface. The upgraded reflective lens does provide better light distribution than basic LED designs.

Best for Users Who Want Color Flexibility

If you are unsure about warm versus cool white preferences or want to adjust lighting seasonally, the LIANGLOME 3-mode design eliminates guesswork. Try each setting and settle on your preference, or switch between modes for different occasions. This flexibility is rare in sub-$40 solar lighting.

Quality Control Inconsistencies

Customer reviews indicate some unit-to-unit variation in build quality. My testing sample performed well, but others report failures or performance differences within the same pack. The 24-month warranty provides protection, though the hassle of replacements should factor into your decision if consistency matters.

11. LEONLITE Dimmable Low Voltage Step Lights - Professional Hardwired Option

The LEONLITE lights represent a completely different category from the solar options reviewed above. These hardwired low voltage fixtures require a transformer and wiring but deliver consistent professional-grade performance regardless of weather or season.

The 5CCT selectable feature is genuinely impressive. You can choose between 1800K (candlelight warm), 2700K (incandescent warm), 3000K (standard warm white), 4000K (neutral white), or 5000K (daylight cool). The 1800K option is unique among step lights, creating romantic ambient lighting for special occasions.

Three selectable wattage settings (3W, 4W, 5W) let you balance brightness against energy consumption and transformer capacity. At 5W, each light produces approximately 260 lumens, roughly 3 times brighter than the best solar options. This makes the LEONLITE ideal for commercial applications or safety-critical residential stairs.

The die-cast aluminum construction feels substantially more robust than any plastic solar light. The oil rubbed bronze finish blends elegantly with traditional home exteriors, and the 9-inch length provides wider light distribution than compact solar alternatives. The 30,000-hour LED lifespan translates to 10+ years of daily use.

Best for Permanent Professional Installation

If you are building a new deck, renovating stairs, or simply want the most reliable long-term solution regardless of upfront cost, the LEONLITE hardwired system delivers. The consistent performance, professional appearance, and 5-year warranty justify the higher price point for homeowners planning long-term residence.

Consider pairing these with related indoor LED strip lighting for coordinated home illumination design.

Requires Electrical Planning and Transformer

The main drawback is installation complexity. You need a low voltage transformer, wire runs, and basic electrical knowledge. While low voltage is safe for DIY installation, the project requires more planning than screwing solar lights onto existing steps. Factor in transformer cost ($30-80) when budgeting.

12. CLOUDY BAY Low Voltage LED Step Light - Compact Retrofit Option

The CLOUDY BAY lights offer a more compact hardwired option compared to the larger LEONLITE fixtures. Measuring just 4.75 inches long, these fit into tight spaces and standard gang boxes where larger fixtures would not work.

The 3CCT selection between 3000K, 4000K, and 5000K provides flexibility without overwhelming options. The push-button control on the fixture face allows color switching without accessing wiring or transformers. I found this convenient for testing different temperatures before settling on a preference.

The downward light projection is a key design feature. Unlike lights that cast in all directions, these focus illumination on the step tread below while minimizing glare for people walking above. This directional approach creates safer navigation while reducing light pollution that annoys neighbors.

The 55-lumen output is modest compared to the LEONLITE's 260 lumens but sufficient for residential step safety. At only 3 watts per light, you can install multiple fixtures on a single transformer without overloading circuits. The energy efficiency significantly exceeds incandescent step lights they typically replace.

Best for Retrofit Applications with Limited Space

If you are replacing old incandescent step lights in existing boxes or have minimal mounting depth available, the compact CLOUDY BAY design fits where larger fixtures cannot. The standard gang box compatibility and 3.25-inch screw spacing match common electrical boxes, simplifying retrofits.

Sealing Required for Outdoor Use

The product description notes water resistance rather than full waterproofing. For outdoor installations, apply silicone caulk around the upper two-thirds of the fixture as recommended in reviews. This simple step prevents the water ingress issues some customers reported. Indoor or covered outdoor applications require less protection.

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Step Lights

After testing 12 different products, I have identified the key factors that determine which step lights will work best for your specific situation. Use this buying guide to narrow down your options based on your priorities.

Brightness and Lumens Requirements

The most common question I see in forums is how bright outdoor step lights should be. Based on professional recommendations and my testing, 50-100 lumens per light hits the sweet spot for residential safety. This range provides enough illumination to identify step edges clearly without creating harsh glare that causes eye strain.

For ambient decorative lighting only, 10-30 lumens suffices. For security-focused applications, consider motion-activated lights with 200+ lumens or the Aootek's 800-lumen output. Remember that perceived brightness varies with color temperature. Cool white lights (5000K+) appear brighter than warm white (2700K-3000K) at identical lumen ratings.

Solar vs Hardwired vs Battery Power

Solar lights dominate the residential market for good reason. They install without wiring, cost nothing to operate, and activate automatically at dusk. However, they require adequate sun exposure and deliver reduced winter performance. Choose solar for south-facing steps with 4+ hours of daily direct sun.

Hardwired low voltage systems provide consistent year-round performance regardless of weather. They require transformer installation and wiring runs but eliminate battery replacement and charging concerns. Choose hardwired for north-facing steps, heavily shaded areas, or applications requiring guaranteed all-night illumination.

Battery-operated lights fill niche applications where wiring is impossible and solar charging inadequate. Expect regular battery replacement costs and shorter runtimes compared to the other options.

IP Ratings and Weather Resistance

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates weather resistance. The first digit represents dust protection, the second digit water protection. For outdoor step lights, look for IP65 or higher.

IP65 protects against dust and water jets, sufficient for most residential applications. IP67 adds protection against temporary immersion, ideal for areas with standing water or heavy rainfall. IP44 protects against splashing water but requires covered installation for reliability.

Forum users consistently report that IP65 or higher is essential for longevity. Lights with lower ratings or no IP certification typically fail within one season of outdoor exposure.

Color Temperature (Warm vs Cool White)

Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), dramatically affects the appearance and functionality of your step lights. Warm white (2700K-3000K) creates inviting ambiance preferred for residential entertaining areas. The yellow tones feel cozy and complement wood decking.

Neutral white (3500K-4000K) provides balanced visibility for general safety applications. Cool white (5000K+) maximizes perceived brightness and works well for security-focused installations.

Professional landscapers overwhelmingly recommend 2700K-3000K warm white for residential outdoor lighting. The warmer tones reduce insect attraction and create softer shadows that maintain night vision better than cool white alternatives.

Installation Methods and Spacing

The industry standard spacing formula places step lights every 300-400mm (12-16 inches) along stair runs. For typical 36-inch wide steps, one centered light or two lights at quarter-points provides even illumination. Wider steps over 48 inches benefit from corner-mounted lights on both sides.

Mount lights 6-8 inches above the tread surface for optimal step edge illumination without glare. On open-riser stairs, mounting on the riser itself works well. For closed-riser stairs, side-mounting on stringers or corner-mounting at tread-riser junctions provides best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Based on forum insights from homeowners who learned the hard way, avoid these common errors:

Glare creation: Lights that shine directly into users eyes create safety hazards rather than solving them. Choose down-facing fixtures or side-mounted lights that illuminate treads without shining upward.

Single switch placement: Install switches at both top and bottom of multi-level stairs. Walking down dark stairs to find the switch defeats the safety purpose.

Over-bright lighting: Excessive brightness creates harsh shadows that obscure step edges. Stick to the 50-100 lumen recommendation per light rather than overwhelming stairs with powerful floodlights.

Ignoring IP ratings: Indoor-rated lights fail quickly outdoors. Verify IP65 or higher for any outdoor installation, regardless of how covered the location seems.

Poor solar placement: Installing solar lights in shaded areas guarantees disappointment. Test potential locations with a full sun exposure assessment before permanent mounting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

After 8 months of testing through every season, the best outdoor step lights for most homeowners remain the VOLISUN Solar Stair Lights. The combination of 80-lumen brightness, IP67 weather protection, and reasonable pricing hits the sweet spot for residential safety lighting. Install them on south-facing steps with adequate sun exposure, and you will enjoy years of reliable illumination.

For security-focused applications, the Aootek Motion Sensor Lights deliver unmatched 800-lumen brightness when activated. For professional permanent installations, the LEONLITE hardwired system provides the most consistent year-round performance with premium features like 5CCT selection and dimming.

Remember that proper placement matters as much as product selection. Space lights every 12-16 inches, mount them 6-8 inches above treads, and choose downward-facing designs that illuminate steps without glaring into users eyes. With thoughtful selection and installation, your outdoor stairs will become safer and more inviting for everyone who visits your home in 2026 and beyond.

Looking for more outdoor lighting ideas? Check out our recommendations for garden lighting gifts to complete your landscape illumination project.