Blue field entoptic phenomenon

Blue Field Entoptic Phenomenon

The Blue Field Entoptic Phenomenon is a visual effect where individuals observe tiny, bright dots moving rapidly in their field of vision when looking at a uniformly bright and blue background, such as the sky. These dots, often referred to as "blue-sky sprites," appear to dart along squiggly lines for less than a second and cover short distances in seemingly random, curvy paths. Some observers note that these dots can appear elongated, resembling tiny worms, and their movement speed fluctuates in synchrony with the heartbeat, momentarily accelerating with each pulse.

Characteristics

• Appearance: Tiny bright dots moving along squiggly lines.
• Duration: Each dot is visible for a second or less.
• Path: Dots travel short distances on random, curvy paths, with some following paths of predecessors.
• Speed: Varies in sync with the pulse, briefly accelerating at each heartbeat.
• Field of View: Dots appear within 15 degrees from the fixation point in the central field of view.
• Perception: Different dots are seen by the left and right eye, with a combined effect observed when looking with both eyes.

Illustration of the Blue Field Entoptic Phenomenon experienced against a blue sky.

Underlying Causes

The phenomenon is attributed to white blood cells moving in the capillaries in front of the retina of the eye. Unlike red blood cells, which absorb blue light, white blood cells are more transparent and create gaps in the blood column. When blue light enters the eye, it is mostly absorbed by the red blood cells, but these gaps allow unabsorbed light to reach the retina and be perceived as moving bright spots.

Experiencing the Phenomenon

To observe the blue field entoptic phenomenon, one can look into a bright blue light, such as a clear sky, without focusing on any particular object. It is more noticeable when the background light is uniform and bright.

Significance

While the blue field entoptic phenomenon is primarily an interesting visual effect, its observation can also be a simple demonstration of the blood flow in the retinal capillaries and the differential light absorption by blood cells. It is a normal occurrence and does not indicate any visual or medical problems.

External Links

• National Center for Biotechnology Information - Blue Field Entoptic Phenomenon
• Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science - Understanding the Blue Field Entoptic Phenomenon

References

• Visual Phenomena and Optical Illusions by Richard A. Zone.
• Ophthalmology: Principles and Concepts by Frank W. Newell..

Blue field entoptic phenomenon Resources
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