What if we could see heat? What can’t be seen but can be felt
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22201/ceide.16076079e.2025.26.3.8Keywords:
thermography, infrared, radiation, inspection, technologyAbstract
Have you ever wondered how scientists can “see” heat? Infrared thermography, a technology capable of capturing the thermal radiation emitted by objects, allows us to explore a world invisible to the human eye. Although it is well known for its use in nighttime observation of people and animals, this technique has much more to offer. In its active form, heat is not only detected, but also stimulated in a controlled manner, opening up a range of possibilities for analyzing materials without damaging them. This article takes you to the core of active infrared thermography: how it works, its applications, and—most excitingly—how you can use conventional cameras to achieve surprising results, without the need for expensive professional equipment. Thanks to this accessibility, the technique could become a key tool in education, research, and industry, democratizing access to a powerful technology. Discover how this innovative technique is changing the way we understand heat—and how its potential is still far from fully explored.
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