Have you ever felt like a cat in the dark? Some people do indeed have an easier time seeing at night than others. But why? What are the mechanisms that allow some of us to have better night vision? Decryption.
Why do some people see better at night?
Night vision is a fascinating phenomenon that can be explained by physiological differences between individuals. Several factors come into play to allow some people to better perceive details in the dark.
Pupil size
The pupil is the opening in the center of the iris that allows light to enter the eye. The larger it is, the more light it lets through and makes night vision easier. Some people naturally have larger than average pupils, which gives them an advantage when it comes to seeing in the dark.
The sensitivity of photoreceptors
The human eye contains two types of photoreceptors: cones, which allow us to see colors and details, and rods, which are more sensitive to light and responsible for night vision. Some people have a higher concentration of rods in their retina, making them better able to perceive low light.
Mitochondria density
Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of cells. In rods, they play a crucial role in converting light into nerve signals that can be interpreted by the brain. Some people naturally have a higher density of mitochondria in their rods, helping them see better in the dark.
Iris pigmentation
Iris color also matters. Light eyes, such as blue or green, let more light through than dark eyes. This can give people with light irises an advantage in night vision.
How to improve your night vision?
If you are one of those who struggle to see in the dark, don't panic! There are several techniques to improve your night vision.
Let your eyes adjust to the dark
When you move from a bright place to a dark place, it takes a few minutes for your eyes to adjust. During this adaptation phase, your pupils dilate and your rods become more sensitive. It is therefore important to give your eyes time to get used to the darkness in order to enjoy better vision.
Avoid blue light
Blue light, emitted in particular by screens, disrupts adaptation to darkness. It is therefore preferable to limit your exposure to this type of light before going into a dark place.
Supplement with vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an essential role in the functioning of rods, so getting enough of this vitamin can improve your night vision. You can find it in carrots, spinach, or liver.
Train your night vision
Like any skill, night vision can be trained. Spend time in the dark regularly to get your eyes used to these low-light conditions. This will help you see details better in the dark.
With these few tips, you should be able to enjoy better night vision and feel like a real predator in the shadows! Feel free to share your experiences and tips in the comments.
Conclusion
Night vision is a fascinating phenomenon that can be explained by physiological differences between individuals. Some people have natural advantages such as a larger pupil, a higher concentration of rods or a higher density of mitochondria in their retina.
Even if you're not one of those "super-sighted" people at night, there are techniques to improve your vision in the dark. By letting your eyes adapt, avoiding blue light, and taking vitamin A supplements, you can boost your visual abilities.
So don't hesitate any longer, set out to conquer the night!