What is IR (Infra Red) in NVG,S

What is IR (Infra Red) in respect of Night Vision Devices otherwise known as NVG,S so many people ask this question and there are a lot of circumspect ideas out there. We hope to clarify this for you here. No1 it is not thermal imaging! 

Infrared (IR) Function on Night Vision Goggles (NVGs)

The Infrared (IR) function on Night Vision Goggles acts like an invisible flashlight. It helps you see in situations where there is almost no natural light — such as inside a bunker, cave, or on a very dark, cloudy night.

Normally, night vision works by amplifying small amounts of ambient light (like moonlight or starlight). But when there isn’t enough light available, the IR function provides its own light source.

The IR illuminator emits infrared light in the 850nm–940nm range. This light cannot be seen with the naked eye, but it appears very bright when viewed through night vision goggles.

Core Functions of the IR Feature

1. Illumination in Total Darkness

When there is no usable natural light, the IR illuminator lights up the immediate area so you can see and move safely.

2. Close-Range Visibility

The IR function is mainly meant for short-distance tasks, such as:

• Reading maps

• Checking equipment

• Moving around indoors or in tight spaces

It is not designed for long-range observation.

3. Signaling

IR light can be used to signal or identify team members — but only to others who are also wearing night vision devices.

Important Things to Consider

• Others with Night Vision Can See You

Although IR light is invisible to the naked eye, anyone else using night vision equipment can clearly see it. This can reveal your position.

• Increased Battery Use

Using the IR illuminator drains the battery faster than normal (passive) night vision operation.

• “Bloom” or Halo Effect

IR light can reflect off surfaces like walls, fog, or smoke. This can create a bright halo or “bloom” effect in the goggles, reducing image clarity.

Passive vs. Active Night Vision

Passive Night Vision

• Amplifies existing light (moonlight, starlight).

• Does not emit any light.

• Harder for others to detect.

Active Night Vision (IR Enabled)

• Uses a built-in infrared light source.

• Works in complete darkness.

• Can be seen by others using night vision.

Equipment Examples

Many modern military-grade night vision devices, such as the AN/PVS-14, include built-in IR LEDs.

Other systems may use separate IR illuminators mounted on helmets or weapons for additional lightin