Night Vision Goggles

Specifications: Length: 320mm Width: 200mm Height: 130mm Weight: 0.774kg Magnification: None (x1) Field of View: 40 degrees (711 mils) Field of View (with NBC Respirator): 28 degrees (478 mils) Objective focus range: 25 cm to infinity Eye Relief: 15mm maximum Brightness Amplification: 20, 000 to 35, 000 times Focal length – Eyepiece: 27mm Power Source: 2 batteries Alkaline AA 3.0 V dc 1 battery Lithium 3.0 V dc Operating Temperature Range: -40 °C to +49 °C

Description/History

Night Vision Goggles allow soldiers to drive vehicles, conduct maintenance, read maps, navigate, and conduct first aid during periods of darkness. The goggles come with a head-harness that allows for hands-free use of the NVGs. They can also be slung around the neck for hand-held periodic viewing.

NVGs require no active visible or infrared light source in order to work. The Image Intensifier Tube amplifies existing light, which allows the user to function as in daylight conditions. The user can also activate an infrared illumination diode in areas of total darkness and situations requiring additional light.

The NVG has one objective lens and two eyepieces. The operator can focus the objective lens from 25cm (for map reading) to infinity (for general viewing). The NVG is compatible with all Canadian army helmets as well as NBC Respirators (gas masks).The AN/PVS-504 Night Vision Goggles were brought into service in 1987. Of the 3,500 that were originally purchased, around 2000 have been upgraded with third generation Image Intensifier tubes.  The remainder are awaiting upgrades.