Dual mode searchlight dimming controller systems and methods

A dual mode lighting system comprising:

• a controller;
• a visible light circuit in signal communication with the controller, the visible light circuit comprises:
• a first light and a second light, the first light and the second light are at least one of halogen or incandescent lights;
• a first switch connected between a power source and a first light;
• a second switch connected between the power source and a connection between the first and second lights;
• a third switch connected between the first and second light and ground;
• and
• a fourth switch connected between the second light and ground;
• an infrared (IR) light circuit in signal communication with the controller;
• and
• a user interface in signal communication with the controller,
• wherein the controller controls operation of the switches using a plurality of control signals,
• wherein the controller controls operation of the circuits based on signals received from the user interface.