Uses For Infrared Light

Infrared light is a scientific breakthrough that has led to advancements in many fields and applications. Infrared is a type of light whose waves are invisible to human eyes, although electronic devices can detect and glean meaningful information from them. Read on for some common uses of infrared technology.

Night Vision

Infrared can be used to amplify light in a low-light situation to enable video recording and image capturing.

Thermography

Thermography uses infrared technology to determine the relative temperature of objects by detecting the amount of radiation they are producing.

Tracking Technology

Infrared can be used in tracking technology; objects, commonly missiles, can be sent to follow a target based on their infrared radiation.

Meteorology

Weather satellites use infrared technology to determine water temperature and cloud formations.

Art History

Infrared lights can be used to look under layers of painting to determine if there are older layers underneath.

Heating

Infrared can also be used to create and conduct heat. Infrared saunas have become popular in the physical therapy field.