man with green night vision equipment

Color Is Key | Why Is Night Vision Green?

Over the last couple of decades, our lives have changed rapidly. The technological leap humanity has made is truly impressive if you consider how many different once unthinkable technologies are now deeply rooted in our everyday life.

Night vision devices may not be as mainstream yet as smart phones and the internet, but even if you have never had experience using them, you are likely somewhat familiar with them. Video games and movies have firmly rooted in our imagination this magical green glow, which is closely associated with the ability to see in the dark.

But why is that? Why is this glow green, and what technology made it the perfect solution? Well, let’s take a closer look…

Night Vision and The Reasons for Green

The main reason for using that familiar green color in night vision devices is the unique structure of the human eye.

human eye up close

The retina contains photoreceptor cells, some designed to function in low-light conditions (these are called rod cells). Their peculiarity is their increased sensitivity to light, with a wavelength of about 500 nanometers, corresponding to green color.

Due to the presence of rod cells in the retina, the visual system better perceives the different shades of green in the dark. This makes this color an ideal option for displaying images on night optics displays.

Guarantees High Image Clarity

In most cases, night vision optics are used in conditions where they have to capture every photon of light. This is the only way to create a high-quality, valuable image for the user.

night vision deer

Green is less scattered in the atmosphere than red, blue, or any other color, which means the device can receive more source data to create a clear picture on the screen.

As mentioned earlier, human eyes perceive the most shades of green. So, this also helps to create a visually brighter and clearer image, in which the user can see all the small details.

Less Eye Strain

The compatibility of human vision with the color green makes it the safest option. It creates strain on the eyes than red, blue, yellow, orange, and other colors. This protects the human visual system from functioning at the limit of its capabilities and reduces the likelihood of eye pain and other various problems like lacrimation, decreased visual acuity, etc.

person seeing in the dark

In conditions of insufficient light, a person perceives green better. This allows the reduction of the load and the prevention of rapid eye fatigue. This is especially important during prolonged use of night optics, when there is may be no opportunity to take a short break. In such conditions, a green image allows for comfortable observation and searching for something in the dark.

If you were to use another color, discomfort would increase, and prolonged use of night optics would be a potentially unsafe activity.

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Presence of phosphor screens in the design

Another reason for using green was the presence of a phosphor screen in the design of many devices. This screen It is an integral part of night optics, which operates on the principle of light amplification.

night vision city

Phosphor screens have long been indispensable design elements of night vision equipment. Because of this, green has been considered the primary color in night optics for many years, and many users have become accustomed to it. Therefore, even with alternative options, green has remained the standard color.

In the design of NV glasses, binoculars, monoculars and sights, the phosphor screen caters to accelerated electrons. When they hit it, a flash of light with a wavelength of 500-550 nanometers occurs. This flash of light corresponds to the green color that users see.

Traditionally Green

Because green has been the standard color for night optics for years, some manufacturers continue to adhere to produce many models with that familiar glow.

Now, that doesn’t mean that manufacturers have stopped searching for alternative options. Nevertheless, green is still the most popular and continues to drive the demand.

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Options for using green night vision

Because green is the most popular night vision color, the slaes of night vision goggles, thermal monoculars, and other night vision equipment utilizing this color allow for higher manufacturer revenue.

So, in essence, the color green produces more “green” for the manufacturers!

night vision binoculars military use

Because green allows for the most prolonged usage with the least amount of eye strain, it is indispensable for use in the military, law enforcement, security, rescue, and dozens of other professions.. And, as previously noted, the green also helps the user to see small details, even in images of lower quality.

In everyday life, green night vision is also used in 24-hour video surveillance cameras. Its use allows for quick identification of strangers, and detection of various problems, like fires. It also great for enjoying moonlight entertainment, and the observation and even hunting of predators.

What other types of night vision are there?

Thanks to the development of technology, alternative night vision colors are available, and each is effective in particular scenarios.

Black and White Night Vision

The so-called white phosphor night vision devices are gaining popularity most quickly. They allow you to get a black and white image on the display, which some people may perceive better than green. Its main advantage is its natural look. The image looks similar to that of old films, which is more familiar than a picture in green tones. Also, the black and white version provides excellent detail.

Multi-Color Night Vision

Multi-color night vision (not to be confused with thermal) is another popular way to get good visibility in the dark. It is used exclusively in modern optics models, which are often very expensive. In these devices, different shades are obtained through special image processing algorithms.

Green Still Great In Night Vision

A green image on the screen of night optics has been the standard for years, and has come to be known mainstream as “the night vision color.”

Even though modern devices will now allow you to see a black and white or even multi-color image, green still rules the day and will be a favorite of millions of night vision users for years to come.

night vision city

Eyes In The Dark | What Are Night Vision Binoculars and How Do They Work?

So, you need to see when it’s dark…

Well, other than turning on a light or waiting for daylight, what can you do?

As a matter of fact, there actually is technology that allows us to see at night… it’s called night vision and it’s used by various optical devices, including night vision binoculars.

How Do Night Vision Binoculars Work?

So, you might be wondering… how exactly does night vision work?

night vision city

Night vision uses reflected natural or artificial light, which is then focused, amplified, and transformed into an image. That “light source” could be the stars and the moon, lights from lanterns or other objects, or an an illuminator (this is an element of the night vision device that uses infrared and is an artificial light source.)

Night vision devices can be divided into two categories:

  • Active, which needs additional lighting – even in the form of residual external lighting;
  • Passive, i.e. those that use only infrared.

High-quality night vision binoculars are similar to standard binoculars, except that darkness is not an obstacle, as it is with standard binos.

Night Vision Devices to Choose From

Night vision binoculars are not the only equipment that allows you to see in the dark. You can also choose a night vision monocular, through which you can observe the surroundings with one eye. It works well both indoors and outdoors. It is handy and can be used to view distant targets, previously equipped with adapters or connected to a telescope.

Night vision goggles are worn on the head, so you can use your hands for something else, like carrying a backpack and a shotgun. Night vision goggles require a power source and are very good in shooting sports or during military training.

pile of hogs with night vision rifle and scope on top

Hunters also can utilize night vision technology in rifle scopes to help them hunt predators, like coyotes, at night.

Trail cameras used by hunters are typically equipped with infrared lights to capture photos and videos of wild animals during their nocturnal activities.

There are also hunting scopes that utilize night vison, for those who hunt for predators at night.

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Night Vision Binoculars Features

Night vision binoculars can be divided into categories based on the night vision technologies that they utilize, which determine the binocular’s parameters.

Analog and Digital Night Vision Binoculars

Analog night vision devices/binoculars were the first iteration, and they certainly had their share of flaws. However, the second and third generation of products provide contrasting and realistic-looking images. One benefit of analog binoculars is that they are not susceptible to reflections caused by water, so you can use them in all weather conditions.

Digital night vision is a newer category of night vision devices that converts the image into an electrical signal and then displays it on a screen in front of your eyes. Digital binoculars also use this technology, and each model can have a different refresh rate. Digital night vision binoculars are one of the most popular, because they offers good quality and functionality while maintaining an affordable price.

night vision deer

You can also use digital night vision binoculars to take pictures and record videos. In addition, they can also be used during the day. However, one disadvantage to using digital night vision binoculars is that they tend to be susceptible to reflections.

Just like regular binoculars, each pair of night vision binoculars provides image magnification, with a wide array of ranges. Digital night vision binoculars allow you to digitally change the magnification. However, at higher magnifications, the image begins to look blurry. Analog night vision binoculars, however, only allow for a constant magnification rate.

What Are Night Vision Binoculars Used for?

The first night vision equipment was created for the needs of uniformed services, and more specifically, the military.

night vision binoculars military use

Today, the military and police personnel are still the primary users of night vision equipment. It’s also used by hunters, as well as scientists who conduct observations of nocturnal wildlife.

What to Consider When Picking Night Vision Binoculars

Choosing night vision binoculars is not so different from choosing regular binoculars. Pay attention to the durability of its construction, water resistance, weight, and magnification capabilities that fit the activity you will be participating in. In addition, it is a good idea to check the image quality capabilities as well as the range and battery battery life.

Binoculars with a digital cameras can be an added bonus, as they can be useful in recording your observations.

Vision… Day or Night

At the end of the day (pun intended), night vision binoculars are extremely practical devices that allow you to see at night and in low-light conditions. Thanks to advanced technology, such as ambient light amplification or infrared illuminators, they have a wide range of uses, including hunting, tourism, property protection and military/police services.

When choosing, be sure to consider whether the key features like image quality, viewing range, and durability fit the type of activity you’ll be needing them for.

Night vision binoculars can be an extremely valuable tool in the field, offering reliability and versatility, regardless of the conditions.

Enjoy that green glow!

man holding a hunting drone

Thermal Drones for Hunting: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Thermal drones for hunting have been gaining traction lately—and it’s easy to see why.

With how far drone tech and thermal imaging have come, hunters in some states now have access to a tool that can seriously shift how they scout, recover, and, sometimes, even hunt game.

While some see this as a groundbreaking step forward, others argue it walks a fine ethical line.

In Arizona, where I hunt, using a thermal drone for hunting is not allowed. Yet, I think about how helpful it would be every season—especially when recovering a wounded animal.

I’ll share some thoughts on the topic based on my experience, explore current regulations, ethical considerations, and why hunters across the country would consider using a thermal drone for hunting.

Let’s break it down.

hunting drone in the woods

Drones have increased in popularity with some hunters… here’s why…

Why Hunters Are Using Thermal Drones

  • Game Recovery: A thermal drone for hunting is often used after the shot to locate a wounded animal. This tech can detect heat signatures even in thick cover or at night.
  • Scouting: Some hunters use drones to identify bedding areas, find possible trails, or view groups of animals from above.
  • Predator Control: In certain states, a thermal drone for hunting is allowed for invasive species or predators like coyotes and even hogs.

In my case, I could’ve used one during an August archery hunt. I took a close-range shot on an archery buck—up in a tree at just 15 yards.

The shot hit high and right, and I knew right then that finding this deer would be tough. I spent hours tracking with no luck. Had a thermal drone for hunting been legal in Arizona, that recovery might have gone very differently.

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Real-World Advantages of Thermal Drones

  • Heat Signatures: Much like their use in law enforcement (think helicopter chases with FLIR cameras), drones with thermal imaging can pick up a heat signature through thick brush or even under snow.
  • Quick Recovery: For ethical hunters, fast recovery of an animal increases the chances of salvaging the meat.
  • Low-Light Visibility: Drones help overcome low-light challenges at dawn, dusk, or during overcast days.

I remember a police chase video where a suspect hid under a child’s plastic pool. Officers on the ground didn’t see him, but thermal mounted on a helicopter picked him up instantly. The same principle applies to game recovery.

Legal Considerations: Where Are Thermal Drones Legal?

hunting drone flying over countryside

You must do your due diligence and research state and local regulations before considering buying a drone for hunting. Understanding local laws is critical, as a thermal drone for hunting might be legal in one state and banned in another.

Common State-Level Restrictions:

  • Arizona: Arizona Game and Fish does not allow the use of drones (thermal or not) to hunt or recover an animal.
  • Colorado & Alaska: Similarly, drones are not permitted for hunting to preserve fair chase ethics.
  • Texas: Allows drone use for certain invasive species but requires a permit.

Always check with your local game and fish department regarding the use of drones. Regulations can shift, especially with rapid tech innovation.

To learn more about regulations, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service offers helpful resources on federal-level hunting laws. At the same time, the Arizona Game and Fish Department provides detailed guidelines for residents like me.

Ethical Concerns: Do Drones Undermine the Hunt?

Many hunters argue that using a thermal drone for hunting crosses an ethical line.

  • Fair Chase: Traditionalists believe hunting should remain a ground-level sport that involves tracking, scouting, and skill.
  • Overreliance on Tech: The concern is that as gear becomes more advanced, the skill element of hunting gets diluted.
  • Slippery Slope: Just as trail cameras became heavily used (and ultimately banned in Arizona), drones may follow a similar pattern.

I’ll be honest—when Arizona banned trail cameras, I wasn’t too upset. On one trip, we hiked deep into a canyon to find a water hole we thought was too remote for others. We found five trail cameras already set up. It felt like a technological arms race, not a hunt.

When Would I Use a Thermal Drone?

I wouldn’t use a thermal drone for hunting during the actual pursuit of an animal. I prefer to keep things challenging and traditional—spot and stalk, tracking signs, and glassing—because that’s what I love most about hunting. However, I might consider one strictly for recovery if it were legal.

I’d also consider using a thermal drone in a survival situation. It could help locate animals and water sources or enhance home security on large rural properties. But, for now, I’m content doing things the traditional way.

What I Would Look for in a Thermal Drone

Key features if you’re considering purchasing a thermal drone for hunting and only after checking your local regulations:

  • High Thermal Resolution: Better target identification.
  • Flight Time: 30 minutes or more is ideal – with a spare battery pack and mobile charger.
  • Range: Look for at least 1.5 to 2 miles.
  • Durability: Weatherproof and field-ready.
  • Ease of Use: Simple interface and reliability in the field.

Companies like DJI Enterprise and Autel Robotics are leading the way in drone and thermal imaging technologies.

Hunting With Drones: Is the Future Already Here?

The topic of using a thermal drone for hunting is controversial and evolving.

While I don’t currently use one due to legal restrictions in Arizona, I understand why others do.

These tools can be a massive advantage for ethical recovery and wildlife management. However, they must be used responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.

What are your thoughts on thermal drones for hunting?

tom guzman author

Tom Guzman is the founder of Trophy Pursuit ( https://trophypursuit.net/ ), a blog focused on hunting, backcountry preparedness, and outdoor gear. With a background as a Marketing Director and expertise in SEO, he combines field experience with digital strategy to deliver practical, well-researched content for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.