A high-temperature light source for use as a spectroscopic excitation source has been developed. Solution samples are injected into a high velocity stream of plasma which is formed by an A-He are burning between a nozzle-shaped anode of copper and a cathode of thoriated tungsten. Electrode erosion, which disturbs the discharge, is eliminated by introducing the sample in such a manner that it contacts neither with the cathode foot of the arc, which is formed on the tip of the negative electrode, nor with the anode foot, which is formed on the inner surface of the nozzle. The discharge is further stabilized by preventing the arc from wandering within the throat of the nozzle by means of an electromagnetic force. Flame temperature of 11,500°K is measured when the arc is operated at 300 amp, power into the arc being 7 kw. Spectral lines originating from upper energy-levels up to 13 eV, such as those of hydrogen, carbon, phosphorus, oxygen, and zinc have been observed.