Night vision

ability to see in low light conditions

Night vision is being able to see in the dark. Some animals, like cats, have natural night vision - they can see in very low light without any help. Humans do not have good night vision. If there is not enough light to see well, a human may need a night vision device such as night vision goggles to help them see.

Night vision goggles come in two types:

Night vision using amplified light
Infrared image
  • Amplification - This increases the visible light, and makes it bright enough for our eyes to see. It works well outside but cannot be used in a completely dark place, such as a cave.
  • Infrared - Uses a different part of the light that we cannot see. It sees heat energy. Animals and vehicles produce heat and are easily seen in infrared, even when it is completely black.