Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity under monochromatic yellow light

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of monochromatic lighting on visual acuity (VA) and contrast sensitivity (CS). Traditional assessments of VA and CS are typically conducted under the illumination of ``white'' light, but variations in color temperature can influence outcomes. Utilizing data from an exhibition by Olafur Eliasson, where a room was illuminated with low-pressure sodium lamps, creating an almost monochromatic yellow light, we compared visual assessments in the yellow room with conventional lighting in a white room. For VA, the results show no significant differences between the two lighting conditions, while for CS, a more nuanced situation is observed. The bias in CS measurements is clinically relevant, and the p-value suggests that further investigation with a larger, more diverse sample may be worthwhile. Despite limitations, such as higher illumination conditions than standard protocols, the unique ``laboratory'' offered by the exhibition facilitated measurements not easily achievable in a traditional setting.