Kremlin stars, Star-shaped spire decorations at Moscow Kremlin, Russia
The Kremlin stars are five glowing spires made of ruby-red glass, mounted on the tallest towers. Each star measures roughly 10 feet (3 m) from point to point and is fitted with light bulbs that shine through the glass at night.
In 1935, the decision was made to remove the old eagles and replace them with these illuminated stars. The original versions made of precious stones were later swapped for lighter glass constructions to ensure stability.
The glowing red stars on the towers shape Moscow's nighttime skyline and are visible from many neighborhoods. Their design appears in souvenirs, artwork, and official representations across the city.
The stars are visible from different spots around Red Square and show up most clearly at night. A view from bridges along the river offers a good overview of several towers at once.
A rotating mechanism allows the stars to turn with the wind so they stay evenly lit from all sides. Heating systems inside prevent ice and snow from forming on the glass during winter.
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