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Scientists Discover "Olo," a Color Beyond Human Vision | NASA Accidentally Alters Asteroid's Solar Orbit During Planetary Defense Test | Night Sky Events: February 27 - March 1, 2026 | Rare Six-Planet Parade Graces the Night Sky in 2026 | NASA Targets Artemis II Rollback Due to Weather, Helium Issue | Artemis II Mission Faces Potential Delay: NASA Troubleshoots Helium Flow Issue | Artemis II Mission Targets March 6 Launch: Crew Enters Quarantine | Greenland’s Ice Is Churning Like Molten Rock | Michael Pollan Explores Consciousness in 'A World Appears' | Scientists Discover "Olo," a Color Beyond Human Vision | NASA Accidentally Alters Asteroid's Solar Orbit During Planetary Defense Test | Night Sky Events: February 27 - March 1, 2026 | Rare Six-Planet Parade Graces the Night Sky in 2026 | NASA Targets Artemis II Rollback Due to Weather, Helium Issue | Artemis II Mission Faces Potential Delay: NASA Troubleshoots Helium Flow Issue | Artemis II Mission Targets March 6 Launch: Crew Enters Quarantine | Greenland’s Ice Is Churning Like Molten Rock | Michael Pollan Explores Consciousness in 'A World Appears'

Science / Technology

Scientists Discover "Olo," a Color Beyond Human Vision

Scientists have identified a 'new' color, named 'olo', that exists beyond the range of human vision. This color can only be perceived through direct stimulation of specific cone cells in the eye using laser technology, pushing the boundarie...

Have scientists discovered a new colour called ‘olo’?
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Scientists Discover "Olo," a Color Beyond Human Vision Image via Al Jazeera

Key Insights

  • 'Olo' is described as a highly saturated teal or blue-green hue, unlike any color seen before without technological assistance.
  • The discovery was made by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, who used laser pulses to stimulate M cone cells in the retina.
  • Artist Stuart Semple has created a paint version of 'olo' called 'yolo', though scientists argue the true color cannot be replicated with current technology.
  • The research may have implications for understanding and potentially treating color blindness and other retinal diseases.
  • The existence of 'olo' raises questions about the physical, neurological, and societal aspects of color perception.

In-Depth Analysis

## Background Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a technique using lasers to stimulate individual photoreceptors in the eye, leading to the perception of 'olo'. This color exists outside the normal range of human vision because it specifically targets the M cone cells, which don't function in isolation under natural conditions.

## The Science of Olo The human eye perceives color through three types of cone cells: S (blue), M (green), and L (red). 'Olo' is perceived when only the M cones are stimulated, a feat achieved by the researchers' laser technology. This stimulation creates a color experience that is beyond the natural capabilities of the eye.

## Artistic Interpretation British artist Stuart Semple created 'yolo' paint by mixing pigments and fluorescent optical brighteners, attempting to replicate the experience of seeing 'olo'. However, scientists like Austin Roorda argue that the true color of 'olo' cannot be replicated because it exceeds the saturation levels of any naturally occurring or synthetically produced color.

## Potential Applications The research team believes this technology could lead to advancements in treating color blindness and understanding retinal diseases. By manipulating individual cone cells, scientists may be able to correct specific vision deficits.

## Regional Trends While the scientific discovery is universal, interest in the color 'olo' and its implications for art and vision may vary regionally based on local science and art news coverage.

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FAQ

What does "olo" look like?

Those who have seen it describe it as a deeply saturated teal or blue-green color unlike anything visible to the naked eye.

Can I see "olo" myself?

Currently, seeing "olo" requires specialized laser technology and participation in research studies.

Is "olo" a brand new color?

The shade has always existed, it just falls outside the spectrum of shades visible to the human eye. From a sociolinguistic perspective, it can be considered a new color if people give new names to colors which previously were indistinguishable thanks to this technology.

Could this technology help people with colour blindness?

Berkeley researchers are exploring whether the Oz technology could help people with colour blindness. Success would depend on the cause of colourblindness in individuals.

Takeaways

  • A new color, "olo," has been discovered that is beyond the normal range of human vision.
  • This color can only be seen through laser stimulation of specific cells in the eye.
  • The discovery may lead to advancements in treating color blindness and understanding retinal diseases.
  • An artist has created a paint version of "olo," but scientists say the true color cannot be replicated.
  • The concept of color perception involves physical, neurological, and societal components.

Discussion

Do you think this discovery will change how we perceive color in the future? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

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