In various embodiments, an illumination apparatus is provided. The illumination apparatus includes a housing, in which at least one radiation source is fixed. A phosphor that is fastened to the housing is arranged downstream of the radiation source. The phosphor is connected to a crack detector, which is used for crack monitoring of the phosphor. A signal path is provided. The signal path connects the crack detector to an evaluation unit that is fixed to the housing. The signal path is formed by at least two contact pins and a flexible printed circuit board that is connected to the crack detector.