Night Vision Technology

Night vision is the ability to see in low light conditions. Whether by biological or technological means, night vision is made possible by a combination of two approaches: sufficient spectral range and sufficient intensity range. Human has poor night vision compared to many animals, in part because the human eye lacks a tapetum lucidum.

Night vision technology

Night vision technology, literally allows one to see in the dark. Pre 1940’s flares and spotlights were used for operations at night. It is originally developed for military use. With the proper night vision equipment, we can see a person standing over 200 yards (183 m) away on a moonless, cloudy night.

History

Due to the nature of these early night vision devices (NVD), they gave away tactical positions. Military scientist began to think of ways to improve night vision to gain a strategic advantage.

The first-night vision devices were created during WWII. Functioned by placing an infrared filter over a searchlight. Fighters would use special binoculars to see using the light form the searchlight.

Generation of night vision technology

First generation

WWII night vision device technology focused on the ability to see without creating additional light. So night vision device began using intensified natural light. A military scientist created a two-stage cascade image tube. This tube intensified the natural lighting and created a superior image for the viewer.

The power of this generation night vision device was put to the test in the Vietnam War. Name of this night vision device in war is Star-Tron Scope.

There were still many problems, some of them are

• Intensification tubes were as heavy as the rifles they were mounted on.
• They are not sensitive enough to give clear images in anything less than full moonlight.
• The night vision devices emitted a whiney noise.

Second generation

Two major developments in night vision devices technology take place in this generation.

The first was a new micro-channel plate that was light weight, and more effective at focusing light into clear images and the second major development was the invention of thermal imagining.

Thermal imaging allowed for night vision even through low natural lighted conditions. It also allowed for night vision through smoky, dusty, and foggy conditions. These thermal imagers were expensive, so in 1973 scientist created a common module that made it less expensive, and more ideal for military use.

The second generation night vision devices were first put to the test by US forces in the early 1990’s during operation Desert Strom in Kuwait. The dark nights and harsh dusty conditions were prefects for implementing the new technology.

Current generation

The currently generations of night vision devices are generation 3 and 4.

The third generation is much like the second generation except for it has a substantially longer life, as well as more defined images.

The fourth generation has less noise than the third generation, however, it has a shorter life.

Some facts of night vision devices

• Development of night vision devices up until the 1980’s was completely focused on military purposes.
• In the 80’s, companies in the US and Europe took night vision technology and found ways to improve everyday civilian life.
• Night vision devices always show images in hues of green because the human eye can differentiate more shades of green that any other colour.

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