NIGHT VISION LIMITATIONS AND TECHNIQUES

Question 1

What are some limitations of night vision?

Answer 1

Reduction in visual acuity

Color vision decreases / disappears

The night blind spot

Question 2

What are the 3 night vision techniques that can be used to overcome reduced visual acuity and color vision?

SOS

Answer 2

Scanning

Off Center Viewing

Shapes or Silhouettes

Question 3

How can scanning help overcome some of the night vision limitations?

Answer 3

Begin scanning at the greatest distance which an object can be perceived and look left and right, slowly moving inward. Overlap viewing areas by 10 degrees. Us the stop-turn method (stopping no more than 2-3 seconds)

Question 4

How does off center viewing help overcome some of the night vision limitations?

Answer 4

Because of the night blind spot, if you stare directly at an object, you will not be able to see it. You should look 10 degrees above, below, or to the side of the object.

Question 5

How does the night vision technique Shapes or Silhouettes help overcome some of the night vision limitations?

Answer 5

Reduced visual acuity at night requires objects be identified by their shapes or silhouettes. Familiarity with architectural designs / vehicles / important terrain relief is imperative.