Thermal Vision Goggles For Outdoor Activities

By Frank Stevens

The first thing you think about when hearing the term thermal vision goggles is probably the latest spy or war movie. They are typically the subject of spies infiltrating bases and such, but they do have their real-life uses. In reality, these types of devices are used by soldiers or law-enforcement officers who use them for security and surveillance, while outdoor adventurers are also using them for activities such as hunting or camping.

There are two different types of night vision technology to chose from: thermal imaging and image enhancement. Image enhancement collects small amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is not generally visible to the human eye, and magnifies it so that surroundings can easily be seen.

Image enhancing models get light from the lower part of the light spectrum, while thermal vision goggles get light from the upper part of the spectrum. The light is emitted through the heat of an object and the goggles capture portions of the heat that is given off. The user sees the heat of the person or object, but does not get a clear image. The hotter the object, the more light is emitted and the easier the object will be seen. A living creature or human will give off more infrared light than something that is inanimate.

These types of goggles can come in head-equipped and handheld variations. The goggles may have a single lens or two eye pieces, though that depends on the model. A spotting scope for focusing in on a target is also a common feature. Goggles that strap to the head are the best choice when the activity requires you to move around often, they rest securely on the head and allow the hands to be free.

The other benefit to thermal imaging models is that the reflection of light is not required to see a living object in complete darkness. With the right kind of thermal vision goggles, you can see things in complete darkness or from very far away.

You can find several different models and styles, and usually need only two AA batteries to use. Thermal vision goggles can be found relatively inexpensively from outdoor, camping or online stores. These types of goggles are a great purchase for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking or hunting and they also can bring something new to an outing. - 31499

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