The lenses of the future already exist. They let you see with your eyes closed

The new lenses, which use nanoparticle technology to absorb low-frequency light and convert it into visible light, allow the wearer to "see the invisible."

Unlike conventional night-vision goggles, the innovative lenses do not require batteries or any external power. The research on them was published May 22 in the journal Cell Press.

Wide range of lens applications

“We are paving the way for non-invasive, wearable devices that can expand the range of human senses,” said Tian Xue, a neuroscientist at the University of Science and Technology of China. He also mentioned potential applications in rescue operations, security and encryption systems, where invisible light could be used to transmit confidential information.

Current night-vision goggles, which date back to World War II, amplify images with electrons and convert them into greenish light. But they are bulky, require power, and have limited ability to detect longer wavelengths of light.

The new lenses were created by embedding nanoparticles in soft, non-toxic polymers similar to those used in classic contact lenses. These particles – containing sodium gadolinium fluoride with added ytterbium, erbium and gold – convert infrared wavelengths between 800 and 1600 nm into visible light in the range of 380 to 750 nm.

Initial tests were conducted on mice. The animals fitted with the lenses avoided areas illuminated by infrared light, something that the mice without the lenses did not. Additionally, their pupils responded to infrared light, and brain scans confirmed activity in areas responsible for processing visual stimuli.

In the next stages, the researchers tested the lenses on people. The test participants were able to notice and locate sources of flashing infrared light. Interestingly, the effect was stronger with closed eyes, because infrared light penetrates the eyelids more effectively than visible light, reducing interference.

People with color blindness can see more

To help people with color vision deficiencies, scientists have modified nanoparticles to convert different infrared wavelengths into blue, green, and red equivalents, making it possible to artificially reproduce colors that were previously invisible to some people.

“By converting invisible red bands into a visible shade, such as green, the technology can actually improve color perception for colorblind people,” Xue explained.

Despite the impressive results, the invention requires further research. Currently, the lenses only work with very intense light sources, such as LEDs. To be practical, their sensitivity must be significantly increased.

The close proximity to the retina also limits their resolving power, so scientists have additionally developed a system of portable glasses that improve image sharpness.

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