Fluorescence spectra of lanthanum monoiodide excited by the Ar+ 502.7-nm laser line have been observed and analyzed. Seven (sub)states are characterized. Preliminary rovibrational data are obtained for the four low-lying states (I-IV). The first two can be ascribed as X(1)Sigma and a(3)Delta: III does have Omega = 1, and IV is possibly (1)Delta. The 11 laser-excited levels are tentatively grouped into three entities. (C) 1998 Academic Press.