Overview

• Scientists in China have developed contact lenses that allow wearers to see infrared light, enabling basic night vision even with eyes closed.
• The lenses use nanoparticles embedded in soft polymers to convert infrared wavelengths into visible light without requiring a power source.
• Initial tests on humans and mice demonstrated the ability to detect infrared signals and distinguish light direction, with better results when eyes were closed.
• Currently, the lenses can only detect infrared light from LED sources, but researchers aim to improve sensitivity to ambient infrared light and enhance image clarity.
• Potential applications include rescue operations, security, anti-counterfeiting, and aiding people with visual impairments or color blindness.