NCJ Number
171976
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 64 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1997) Pages: 37-43
Date Published
1997
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes night-vision devices and how they have enhanced the effectiveness of law enforcement.
Abstract
There are at least two kinds of night vision equipment: image amplifiers (colloquially known as "starlight scopes") and thermal imagers. Starlight scopes amplify any available light 30,000 to 50,000 times to produce a visible monochrome image. Using one of these, an officer can observe activity in a dark alley that would be invisible to the naked eye. Many nightscopes have a small infrared light-emitting diode to provide supplementary illumination. Some nightscopes are for observation only, while other models are designed to be mounted on a rifle. Thermal imagers use infrared to detect heat differences. The article describes different models of these devices as well as funding arrangements that enable law enforcement organizations to purchase the new technology, including State grants, asset forfeiture money, Federal grants, and special purchasing arrangements with manufacturers. The article also includes a source list for low-light and night-vision equipment.