Why does a tritium compass glow - The physics behind it

There is a widespread misunderstanding around the Tritium glowing in devices like the Cammenga 3H compass and Francis Barker compass M73, frequently used for high level accurate navigation. It's important to clarify that the glow attributed to Tritium is actually a result of beta radiation exciting phosphors in the compasses' coating. This distinction is vital for accurate information dissemination. Navigational enthusiasts often seek illuminating tools like these, known for their reliability. Understanding the science behind the glow enhances appreciation for the technology. For those interested this UA-cam video goes through the basic reasons why compasses such as the Cammenga 3H compass and the Francis Barker M73 compass really glow in the dark.