stereoskopia

Stereoskopia is the science and art of creating and perceiving three-dimensional images. It relies on the principle of binocular vision, where humans naturally perceive depth by comparing the slightly different images received by each eye. Stereoscopic displays and techniques aim to replicate this difference for a viewer, tricking the brain into perceiving a sense of depth.

The most common method of stereoscopic display involves presenting two slightly offset images, one to each eye. This can be achieved through various means, such as using special glasses that filter images for each eye, or by using lenticular lenses or barrier screens that direct different images to different parts of the viewer's field of vision. Early stereoscopes, popular in the 19th century, used prisms or mirrors to achieve this effect with printed cards featuring paired photographs.

Modern stereoscopic applications are widespread. They are used in 3D cinema, virtual reality headsets, augmented reality systems, and in fields like medicine and engineering for visualizing complex data. The effectiveness of stereoskopia depends on factors like the separation between the images (interocular distance), the convergence of the eyes, and the visual acuity of the observer. While generally safe, some individuals may experience eye strain or discomfort, often referred to as "vergence-accommodation conflict." The study and practice of stereoskopia continue to evolve with advancements in display technology and understanding of human visual perception.