Night Vision Goggles for Pilots

When pilots are flying using what is know as visual flight rules (VFR) they are relying on visual information to dodge obstacles, bad weather etc to ensure that the aircraft is flying the right way up. Because of this during night flights, this visual information is degraded considerably. This constrains the pilots ability to determine distance, and to be able identify objects. Not to mention colour becomes non-existent, and your peripheral vision is severally degraded.

Because of the technological advances, night vision goggles can greatly enhance a pilots vision. Tpypically night vision goggles are mounted on the pilots helmet which allows them to look through the goggles. They can be setup so that when looking straight ahead their vision will be improved by the night vision, and when they look down they will be able to see the lit flight instruments. With the pilot being able to see during night operations, night vision googles can improve the safety of a night flight. In general conditions night vision goggles can provide the pilots with a great increase in the visual information that they are provided. They will be able to see the horizon, ground, weather and objects more easily.

However even with the great advantages that night vision goggles provide pilots they do still have some limitations. As yet full colour optics are not fully operational, and goggles still limit the view that the pilot can see. Because most night vision goggles use ambient light their quality of the image will vary depending on the conditions.

Safe use of night vision goggles would include a Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS). This system is very comprehensive, and includes special cockpit lighting that does not interfere with the goggle image. This includes specially designed components and equipment to make up a complete package to ensure the best operation of the night vision goggles.