How long does it take to get night vision?

The process of adapting to low light conditions, known as dark adaptation, typically takes around 30 minutes for the human eye to reach its maximum night vision capability. During this time, the eyes undergo various physiological changes; the cone cells, which are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light, decrease their activity, while the rod cells, which are more sensitive to light and responsible for vision in low light, become increasingly responsive. This adaptation is vital for military personnel who may need to operate effectively at night or in low-light environments, thus ensuring they can maintain situational awareness and accomplish their missions under such conditions. This timeframe emphasizes the important preparation military personnel must undertake when planning operations that involve night maneuvers, allowing adequate time for their eyes to adjust fully.