New Infrared Imager Converts Infrared Light into Clear Images Written by AZoOpticsMay 6 2021 Imagine mapping out an individual’s blood vessels while simultaneously monitoring heart rate without making contact with the person’s skin, seeing through fog and smog, and seeing through silicon wafers to check the composition and quality of electronic boards. The new infrared imager is thin and compact with a large-area display. Image Credit: Ning Li. The above examples are just a few of the capabilities of a novel infrared imager designed by a research team headed by electrical engineers from the University of California, San Diego. This imager detects a part of the infrared spectrum, known as shortwave infrared light (wavelengths between 1000 and 1400 nm), which is right beyond the visible spectrum (between 400 and 700 nm). But shortwave infrared imaging should not be confused with thermal imaging, which detects relatively longer infrared wavelengths emitted by the body.