Scientists have created lenses with infrared content that let people see in the dark.
The new lens developed by China researchers was unveiled today in the journal Cell.
The journal states that the lenses do not require a power source. They enable the wearer to perceive multiple infrared wavelengths, even when the participants' eyes are closed.
Senior author of the study and neuroscientist at the University of Science and Technology of China Tian Xue said the research opens up potential for noninvasive wearable devices that can give people super vision.
"There are many potential applications right away for this material,” he said.
“For example, flickering infrared light could be used to transmit information in security, rescue, encryption or anti-counterfeiting settings."
According to Xue, participants were better at detecting infrared flashes when their eyes were shut, or when the lenses were first tested, due to no interference from visible light.
The lenses use nanoparticles that absorb infrared light and convert it into wavelengths visible to mammals.
While they are not yet available to wear, Xue said he and his team are working on improving nanoparticle sensitivity so they can make higher-resolution lenses.
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