Cold Weather Goggles. 1. Optical Evaluation

Abstract : To compare the utility of a dozen protective goggles for the cold, their transmittance of harmful radiation, optical quality, resistance to fogging, and comfort were measured. The transmittances were discussed in terms of thresholds for damage to the eye from various bands of light radiation. The optical characteristics were evaluated against military specifications for aviators' visors. All the goggles except one screened out enough UV at sea level, and all but two screened out enough of the visible and infrared radiation. There were wide variations in optical quality, resistance to fogging, and comfort. A set of specifications was drawn up to meet the various requirements, but it was concluded that one set of goggles was unlikely to be satisfactory for the wide range of conditions which would be encountered.