Stereoscopic illumination system for retroreflective materials

A system and method of illuminating a portable object even when the object is otherwise well illuminated by ambient light. Retroreflective material is provided on the exterior of the portable object. The retroreflective material may be pigmented to absorb most light and reflects only light within a predetermined frequency range. An illumination assembly is provided that contains a first light source and a second light source. The first light source and the second light source are positioned a short distance apart so that they produce stereoscopic beams of light. Each of the stereoscopic beams of light is monochromatic. Furthermore, the frequency of each of the stereoscopic beams of light falls within the predetermined frequency range. When the stereoscopic beams of light strike the retroreflective material, it shines even in bright ambient light.