Probably temperature could be an issue. I wouldn't worry about the brightness just as long as the plants don't burn from the heat.

After reading the reviews on Amazon, I learned that a replacement bulb is not available. After a quick search on the internet, I could not find one either. I don't know if anyone else knows of a source, but seemed a big expense for a one time use.

Cooper, I thought the fact that the dome has a couple of vents would alleviate any heat build up, so I wasn't too worried. I just wondered if 7" off the plants would be too close for the light?

Toni, I read those comments, too and they puzzled me. How did you search for a replacement bulb that led you to the conclusion they were not out there? I've not seen the fixture in person, but I don't see why a standard 18" T5 bulb commonly used in aquarium hoods wouldn't work. They're readily available at any pet shop and come in a variety of spectrum - many suitable for plant growing in an aquarium.

Hmm. I'll mull it over a bit more; thank you both for your thoughts. Yes, it is pricey and if I didn't have that gift card I wouldn't think of buying it in a million years - but it does seem like the thing I need to increase my shelf space and make use of that dead space on top of my wire rack....
Anne

Dear Anne, Another newbie mistake. I took the amazon review literally. I thought the only bulb that would fit was by the same manufacturer. I only checked that part out on the internet. I did not realize you could use a 18 in aquarium bulb for a replacement. This information puts a different slant on a possible purchase. My second thought was why such a reduced price? If you do buy this, please share what you think when you get it. As always, I love the fact that I am always learning from people on this forum. :) toni

Well, Toni, I am *assuming* that one can use an aquarium bulb as a replacement...but I guess I will find out because I went ahead and ordered it. I spent the weekend checking out other possible light options for that top shelf and I just didn't have enough height to the ceiling for most of them. This will fit and should do what I'm looking to do - it's not like I'm planning to add another 4' long shelf completely full of full grown AV's up there; I just want an out of the way place to propagate that doesn't take away room from my display shelves. So I'll let you know how my leaf starts and baby plants like the Sun Blaster when it gets here and I set it up.
Thanks,
Anne