Systems and methods permit use of efficient solid state emitters for broad spectrum continuous spectrum lighting defined by illumination data. The illumination data, which can be sold as a commercial product, can be recorded or authored and include spectral, temporal, and spatial information. A lighting fixture can use information such as the illumination data, emitter age, temperature, and calibration data to calculate drive levels as needed to control intensities of individual emitters and thereby produce desired patterns of spectral content and time variation.