Averted Vision - Corner Of The Eye Phenomena?

[Ian McCallum]

I've always been a bit wary of 'averted vision', as it reminds me of 'corner of the eye phenomena'.

When looking at DSO's using this method, are we actually "seeing" them or is our brain just filling in the blanks that we expect to see?🤔

http://www.assap.ac.uk/newsite/articles/Corner eye phenomena.html

Edited January 2, 2023 by Ian McCallum

[Captain Scarlet]

The article itself gives the answer: [in the dark] best eyesight resolution is 15 - 20 degrees off centre*

i.e. well away from what might be considered corner of the eye

Cheers, Magnus

Edited December 28, 2022 by Captain Scarlet

[Franklin]

We're seeing them. I'm no biology expert but the human eye has two types of light-receptive cells, rods and cones. One type is at the middle of the retina and is sensitive to colour, whilst the other is more light sensitive and to the sides of the retina. This is why, by looking to the side of where the object should be, it miraculously pops into view. But as soon as you look directly at it, it will disappear. When I first experienced this, as a youngster, I thought I'd developed a super-human power! It's fascinating to experience and it really does work.

[Elp]

It definitely works as it's the only way I can see things where I am, even star clusters require it.

Maybe I need to find space for a 16 inch dob.

 

Edited December 28, 2022 by Elp

[Ian McCallum]

Thanks for everyone's input, as I was a bit dubious.  This comes from being a former "ghost hunter" who was and is still sceptical of the human senses.