Simple, one-step synthesis of spherical-shaped powder phosphors with aqueous precursors via a spray pyrolysis method is reported. Green-emitting MgGa2O4:Mn2+. phosphor with a controlled shape was successfully obtained by spraying under a reductive atmosphere (N-2 + H-2 carrier gas) without hightemperature post-heat treatment. In addition, the corresponding powder phosphors were well dispersed and showed a clean surface morphology compared to an existing cumbersome process using hightemperature post-annealing. The new method may help to prevent surface residual non-radiative defect sites. The result of highly luminescent and spherical morphology, non-aggregated powder phosphor by this procedure holds promise for a cost-effective and rapid synthesis process for conventional inorganic phosphors. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.