technology to stimulate the retina, opening new possibilities in vision research.">
In a groundbreaking study published April 18th, scientists revealed the discovery of a novel chromatic shade: Olo. Using advanced laser technology to stimulate the retina,researchers have successfully unveiled a color previously imperceptible to the human eye. This innovation not onyl expands our understanding of human vision, but may also lead to future developments in treating color vision deficiencies.
Scientists Discover “Olo,” a Never-Before-Seen Color
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A groundbreaking study,published April 18 in Science Advances,unveils teh finding of a new color,dubbed “Olo.” Researchers have successfully bypassed the natural limitations of human vision, allowing participants to perceive a chromatic shade previously unseen. This innovative approach,using precisely calibrated laser pulses to stimulate the retina,opens new frontiers in color perception and vision science [[reference needed]].
Did You Know?
The experiance of seeing “Olo” was likened to Dorothy’s transition from a black-and-white world to the vibrant Technicolor of Oz in “The Wizard of Oz.”
The Science Behind “Olo”
Located between blue and green, “Olo” is not visible to the naked eye under normal conditions. Its perception requires a refined scientific intervention. Researchers used laser technology to target specific cells in the retina, known as M cones, in five participants with normal color vision. The goal was to generate a neural signal that the brain could not associate with any known color [[3]].
- Laser Precision: A high-precision laser beam was directed into the eyes of participants.
- Retinal Stimulation: The laser stimulated M cones, creating a novel neural signal.
- Beyond Natural Range: This technique allows the perception of colors beyond the natural human range.
The result is a color that exists outside the boundaries of the conventional chromatic spectrum,perhaps unlocking a new realm of color experiences.
“A color more saturated than any visible color in the real world”
Professor Ren NG of the University of California, a co-author of the study and one of the volunteers, described the new color as “More saturated than any visible color in the real world.”
[[2]]. The color,which they call “olo,” has never before been seen by human eyes. it was like a profoundly saturated teal… the most saturated natural color was just pale by comparison
said Austin Roorda, a professor of optometry and vision science at UC berkeley [[3]].
Implications for Vision Research
This innovative experiment could revolutionize research into color blindness (daltonism), providing insights into how the human eye perceives colors. By understanding how the brain processes these artificially created colors, scientists may develop new therapies or assistive technologies for individuals with color vision deficiencies.
A Disputed “Color” Status
The discovery of “Olo” has sparked debate within the scientific community. Some experts question whether it constitutes a genuinely new color or simply an intensified version of an existing one.
Pro Tip
Color perception is subjective and varies among individuals. What one person perceives as a new color, another might interpret differently.
Professor John Barbur, a vision specialist at St George’s University in London, considers the discovery “Subject to discussion.”
While acknowledging the experiment as a “Technological feat,”
he suggests that “Olo” might be an intensification of a known color. “If the red conical cells are stimulated in large numbers, people would perceive a deep red,”
he explained.
