What is TracePro?
TracePro is advanced engineering software from Lambda Research Corporation designed for the design, analysis, and optimization of optical and lighting systems. The program has been continuously developed since 1994, originally commissioned by NASA, and has become an industry standard in dozens of countries worldwide.
The software uses ray tracing and Monte Carlo simulations to precisely model light behavior in complex mechanical-optical systems. TracePro supports geometry import from popular CAD programs — SolidWorks, Pro/ENGINEER, STEP, and IGES — enabling seamless integration with existing design workflows.
TracePro is used by engineers and scientists working in LED lighting, precision optics, projection systems, the automotive industry, aerospace, and medicine. Users of the program include institutions such as NASA, where TracePro was used, among other things, in the analysis of the James Webb Space Telescope.
TracePro key features
simulation of millions of light rays using the Monte Carlo method, with full stochastic analysis of luminance and irradiance distribution.
direct import from SolidWorks, Pro/ENGINEER, Solid Edge, STEP, IGES, and SAT without loss of model accuracy
database of optical properties of materials, reflective, scattering, and absorbing coatings
detection and elimination of unwanted light scattering, particularly important in aerospace and astronomical applications
optimization algorithms automatically tune system parameters to given photometric criteria
library of LED, laser, and halogen lamp sources with the ability to import IES/LDT data from manufacturers
generation of irradiance maps, false-color maps, luminance distribution charts, and ready-made engineering reports
See TracePro in action
TracePro applications
| Industry / Field | Example use case |
|---|---|
| LED lighting | Design of luminaires, reflectors, TIR lenses, light distribution analysis |
| Automotive | Vehicle lighting systems, LIDAR systems, adaptive headlights |
| Aerospace | Stray light analysis in telescopes, satellite instruments, Mars Rover cameras |
| Medicine and biotechnology | Imaging systems, endoscopes, diagnostic devices |
| Displays and projection | Projectors, HUD systems, AR/VR goggles |
| Solar energy | Solar energy concentrators, CPV cells |
| Scientific instruments | Spectrometers, microscopes, interferometers |
Frequently asked questions about TracePro
Does TracePro work with SolidWorks?
Yes. TracePro supports direct import of models from SolidWorks via the SAT format as well as STEP/IGES. There is also a dedicated RayViz plugin for SolidWorks that enables ray visualization directly within the CAD environment.
What is the difference between TracePro and OSLO?
TracePro is optimized for the analysis of lighting and photometric systems (LED lighting, stray light, projection systems). OSLO focuses on the design and optimization of optical elements — lenses, objectives, and imaging systems. In practice, both tools often complement each other.
Is an educational or academic version available?
Yes. Lambda Research Corporation offers preferential academic licenses for universities and research institutes. Contact us to get a quote tailored to your institution.
How long does TracePro implementation take?
Basic simulations can be run after 1–2 days of training. For advanced projects with CAD import and optimization, we recommend 2–3 days of training plus technical support in the first weeks of work. We offer support in Polish.
What operating systems does TracePro run on?
TracePro runs on Windows (64-bit). Hardware requirements: Intel/AMD processor, min. 8 GB RAM (16 GB+ recommended), a graphics card with OpenGL support.
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