The first ever Formula 1 race to be staged at night illuminated for daylight conditions goes ahead in Singapore next weekend. It will be the second street race to be inaugurated this year after Valencia. But Singapore poses a bigger challenge.

Singapore's high humidity often causes a daily shower which will be enough to keep the temperatures down. However, if this occurs at night, racing might prove problematic.

The weekend's timetable has been finalised and F1 drivers will have more time to familiarise themselves with the circuit: a street circuit does not leave any room for error.

Friday's first practice session will start at 7 p.m., two minutes after the official sunset. Drivers will be able to at least drive in semi-darkness initially. With the circuit illuminated to resemble daylight, drivers will need to adjust to the new experience.

The Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore is fitted with nearly 1,500 lighting projectors, illuminating the 5.067-kilometre track with light that is four times brighter than a football stadium at night.

As the track is a street circuit, the lighting system is temporary. Lighting height will vary to accommodate the trees lining the road. The lights are also set deliberately lower than the canopy, and will not interfere with underground public services such as water and gas pipes, and electricity cables.

Lighting consulting company Valerio Maioli SpA was entrusted with this ambitious project and used state of the art lighting to minimise glare and reflections from wet surfaces or spray from cars . Over 108,420 metres of power cables were used and over 1,600 light projectors installed.

The race will start at 8 p.m. (2 p.m. Malta time). It will be different: with the sound of thunderstorms and possible rain thrown in for good measure. Incidentally organisers are urging fans to buy rain apparel at the entrance. Rainwear is sponsored by the Singapore Red Cross.