Compact optical screen could pave the way for cheaper infrared cameras
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have developed a metasurface screen that converts invisible infrared light into visible light. This innovation could significantly reduce the cost and size of infrared cameras by eliminating the need for expensive, cooled detectors.
Why it matters
Lowering the cost of infrared imaging technology could democratize access to advanced monitoring tools in medicine, industrial safety, and security.
by ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Concept of the metasurface–UCNP hybrid upconversion screen. Credit: Light: Science & Applications (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-026-02449-5 New research led by the ARC Center of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems (TMOS) at the University of Melbourne demonstrates a new way to make invisible infrared light visible without relying on the expensive detector technology used in today's infrared cameras.
Infrared is a type of light our eyes can't see, but it carries information about heat and objects in the environment. It is widely used for environmental monitoring, industrial inspection, medicine and security.
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