Infrared (IR) light for night vision scopes refers to electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the human eye but detectable by night vision and infrared imaging devices. By illuminating a scene with infrared light, night vision scopes and infrared telescopes can generate clear images in low-light or complete darkness, significantly enhancing visibility and situational awareness.
Infrared illumination is widely used in night vision scopes, while infrared telescopes (thermal imaging scopes) detect mid- to long-wave infrared radiation emitted by objects themselves, enabling true 24/7 operation regardless of ambient light conditions.
Critical Specifications of Infrared Light for Night Vision Scopes / Infrared Telescopes
- Wavelength: Near-infrared illuminators typically operate between 700–1000 nm, while thermal infrared telescopes operate in the 8–14 μm (LWIR) band.
- Power Output: Determines effective illumination distance and image clarity in night vision systems.
- Beam Angle: Wide beams cover larger areas for surveillance; narrow beams provide focused, long-range illumination.
- Battery Life: Essential for extended field missions and continuous night operations.
- Durability: Waterproof, dustproof, shock-resistant construction is critical for outdoor and tactical environments.
- Mounting Compatibility: Ease of integration with night vision scopes, riflescopes, helmets, or handheld systems.
Applications of Infrared Light & Infrared Telescopes
Infrared illumination and infrared telescopes are widely used in:
- Security & Surveillance: Enhancing CCTV, perimeter monitoring, and night patrol capabilities.
- Military & Law Enforcement: Covert reconnaissance, tactical operations, and target observation in darkness.
- Hunting & Wildlife Observation: Observing animals at night without visible disturbance.
- Search & Rescue: Locating people in low-visibility or adverse environments.
- Maritime & Outdoor Operations: Navigation, monitoring, and special task execution in challenging conditions.
How to Select Infrared Light for Night Vision Scopes
When choosing an infrared illuminator or infrared telescope, consider:
- Device Compatibility: Ensure wavelength and output match your night vision or imaging system.
- Operational Distance: Select appropriate power and beam angle based on short-range or long-range use.
- Portability & Weight: Especially important for head-mounted or handheld systems.
- Reliability & Build Quality: Rugged designs ensure stable performance in harsh environments.
- Budget vs Performance: Balance required specifications with cost, especially when choosing thermal imaging systems.
SOTMQ Series Infrared Scope / Infrared Telescope
The SOTMQ series is a lightweight, high-performance infrared telescope designed using advanced fileless film (shutterless) technology, significantly improving image stability, refresh rate, and sensitivity. This enables continuous full-scene thermal imaging 24/7, without image freezing or interruption.
SOTMQ infrared scopes are ideal for reconnaissance, hunting, security surveillance, maritime operations, and special missions, offering reliable performance across diverse and demanding environments.
Key Features of SOTMQ Infrared Telescope
- Advanced no-block (shutterless) thermal imaging technology
- Rapid startup for immediate operation
- Multiple imaging and color palette modes
- Up to 8 hours of extended standby time
- Compact, lightweight, and field-ready design
- IP67-rated waterproof protection
Technical Specifications – SOTMQ Series
Detector & Imaging
| Model | SOTMQ-384-35/50 | SOTMQ-640-35/50 |
|---|---|---|
| Detector Type | Uncooled Thermal Detector | Uncooled Thermal Detector |
| Resolution | 384 × 288 | 640 × 512 |
| Pixel Pitch | 12 μm | 12 μm |
| Spectral Range | 8–14 μm | 8–14 μm |
| NETD | ≤ 35 mK | ≤ 35 mK |
Optical Performance
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 35 mm / 50 mm |
| Aperture | F1.0 |
| Digital Zoom | ×1 / ×2 / ×4 |
| Field of View (35 mm) | 7.5° × 5.7° / 12.5° × 10.0° |
Detection Range (35 mm)
| Target | SOTMQ-384 | SOTMQ-640 |
|---|---|---|
| Human Identification | 1200 m | 1500 m |
| Vehicle Identification | 1800 m | 2200 m |
| Human Recognition | 500 m | 800 m |
| Vehicle Recognition | 800 m | 1100 m |
System & Environment
- Display: 0.39″ OLED, 1024 × 768
- Frame Rate: 50 Hz
- Storage: Built-in 32 GB eMMC
- Video Output: USB-C / WiFi
- Battery: Dual 18650 Li-ion batteries
- Operating Temperature: −40 °C to +60 °C
- Impact Resistance: 500 G (1200 G optional)
- Weight: ≤ 600 g / ≤ 650 g