Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) in Hefei have developed contact lenses that allow humans to see in the dark by converting invisible infrared light into visible colors, even when their eyes are closed. Enhanced by artificial intelligence, these lenses promise to revolutionize night vision and open new possibilities in security, medicine, and beyond. The findings were published in the journal Cell.
Led by neuroscientist Tian Xue and researcher Yuqian Ma, the team engineered upconversion contact lenses (UCLs) embedded with nanoparticles made of gold, sodium gadolinium fluoride, ytterbium, and erbium ions. These particles capture near-infrared light (800 to 1,600 nanometers) and transform it into visible light (380 to 750 nanometers), enabling wearers to perceive infrared signals as vivid reds, greens, or blues. Unlike traditional night-vision goggles, which are bulky and power-dependent, these lenses are lightweight, biocompatible, and require no external energy.
A standout feature is the lenses’ ability to function when the wearer’s eyes are closed. Infrared light penetrates eyelids more effectively than visible light, reducing interference and allowing clear detection of infrared signals. In trials, volunteers wearing the lenses identified flashing infrared patterns, such as Morse code-like signals, with remarkable clarity—especially with eyes closed. “Without the lenses, participants saw nothing in the dark,” said Tian Xue. “With them, they could detect and interpret infrared signals effortlessly.”
AI plays a critical role in overcoming a key challenge: light scattering by the nanoparticles, which can blur images. The team integrated AI algorithms to process and sharpen the converted light signals, delivering clearer visuals. While additional optical components aid focus, the AI-driven enhancement ensures the lenses produce usable images, even in challenging conditions.
Crafted from soft, non-toxic polymers similar to standard contact lenses, the UCLs are comfortable and safe for human use. The technology builds on earlier experiments where the team enabled mice to see in the dark by injecting nanoparticles into their retinas. The shift to non-invasive lenses marks a major step toward practical human applications.
Currently, the lenses detect high-intensity infrared sources, such as LEDs, but the team is working to increase sensitivity to capture ambient infrared emissions, like those from warm objects. “We’re collaborating with materials and optics experts to make the lenses more versatile,” Ma said. Potential uses include discreet night vision for security personnel, enhanced medical imaging, and assistive technology for the visually impaired, such as mapping infrared wavelengths to visible colors.
Safety concerns, including heat generation during light conversion and nanoparticle stability, are being addressed to ensure long-term use. The discovery has ignited excitement on X, with users hailing it as “superhero-level tech” and envisioning applications from nighttime navigation to covert communication.
As research advances, these AI-powered infrared lenses could transform how we perceive the world, granting humans the ability to see in complete darkness—eyes open or closed.