A group of researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China has developed infrared contact lenses that allow people to see in the dark even with their eyes closed, Gizmodo reports, citing the scientific journal Cell.
Unlike traditional infrared glasses, the new lenses do not require a power source. They work thanks to nanoparticles that absorb infrared light and convert it into visible light for humans. During experiments, 10 volunteers who tested these lenses were able to perceive infrared waves, which are usually invisible to the human eye.
Because the lenses are transparent, the participants could see both infrared and visible light simultaneously, although infrared vision was enhanced when the participants closed their eyes. The scientists were also able to modify the lenses so that they converted different spectra of infrared light into specific colors, which could help people with color blindness.
The researchers also tested the technology on mice. Animals wearing the lenses were able to distinguish between dark and infrared-illuminated areas, confirming the device's effectiveness. In humans, the lenses allowed them to recognize flashes of light that resembled Morse code, as well as the direction of the infrared source.
Despite significant progress, the technology still needs to be refined. Researchers are working to increase the sensitivity of the lenses and improve spatial resolution to make them more effective for practical use. This discovery could find applications in security, rescue operations, encryption and anti-counterfeiting, opening up new possibilities for wearable devices of the future.