Alien Vision

Austin Richards takes readers on a visual tour of the electromagnetic spectrum beyond the range of human sight, using imaging technology as the means to "see" invisible light. Dozens of colorful images and clear, concise descriptions make this an intriguing, accessible technical book. Richards explains the light spectrum, including visible light, and describes the advanced imaging technologies that enable humans to synthesize our own version of "alien" vision at different wavelengths, with applications ranging from fire fighting and law enforcement to botany and medicine.


The second edition expands existing content, explores recent areas of research, and provides new illustrations that demonstrate the variability of vision throughout the spectrum.