infrared Schlieren photography

Infrared Schlieren photography is a technique used to visualize heat waves and other invisible phenomena in the atmosphere. It involves using infrared light to capture images that show variations in air density, which are often caused by heat. By passing infrared light through a setup that includes a lens and a knife-edge filter, subtle differences in temperature and air flow become visible. This technique is particularly useful in areas like aerodynamics, engineering, and environmental studies, allowing scientists and engineers to see how warm air interacts with cooler air, revealing patterns that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.