Can a sheet full of tiny holes cut the glare and sharpen blurry vision?

This problem explores some well-known optical physics that some medical practitioners use for patients.

IYPT problem in full

This problem is number 1 of 17 for IYPT 2027.

“Investigate the optimal arrangement of pinholes in an opaque film to produce sunglasses that reduce light intensity and help correct short-sightedness.”

Specialist equipment

No specialist equipment is needed for this experiment.

Safety First!

Pinhole sunglasses are not suitable for a lot of everyday activities. They restrict your field of vision which can be dangerous and provide no protection for your eyes from bright light sources.

• Do not use the glasses when driving or operating machinery
• NEVER look directly at bright lights or the sun through your pinhole glasses
• Pinhole sunglasses should not be used to replace prescription glasses.
• Artificial lights can become hot. take care not to burn yourself.