Big deal
I can see in UV and it never stopped me eating yellow snow.
Reindeer can see much further into the ultraviolet than humans can, according to new research. This is thought to offer the antler-sporting capreolines several important arctic survival abilities. "We discovered that reindeer can not only see ultraviolet light but they can also make sense of the image to find food and stay …
I was told by my physics teacher at school that pilots in WW2 who had burn injuries requiring an artificial lens as replacement were able to see in UV as there was no water in the lens. They were then apparently deployed on nighttime coastal watch duties.
I've no reason to doubt this other than an ophthalomic surgeon I know know nothing of this history and I'd have thought that there would be other examples by now if true.
Unless we're meant to be keeping it a secret
Oh darn.....
Could be a career-enhancing bit of surgery for military types (ranging from SF to drivers and pilots) and spooks, although probably there are some downsides too.
As mentioned above, it is a recognised consequence of surgery to the lens or capsule of the eye - for instance, cataract surgery - that the person can see an enlarged spectrum which may extend into both IR and UV, as there are natural filters built into the front of the eye.
I am aware of anecdotal evidence from a lady who had cataract surgery who sees colours on flowers that are not visible to other people, and it is now accepted that the artist Claude Monet experienced the same thing.
Well...actually it had to be an IR (infrared) emitter, if his name is Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Otherwise, he would be known as Rudolf the Violet-Nosed Reindeer...and that would just completely screwup the song...and really confuse everyone during the Holidays.
Indeed, it's well documented that reindeer are fickle bastards: first they laugh at poor Rudolph and call him names, then after Santa puts him on point, suddenly they all love him and shout with glee.
So, no I wouldn't have one as a friend - might make a nice stew though.
Paris - now she would make a good friend - a best friend even.