Leonardo Da Vinci, circa 1508 As illustrated above, human visual perception has been studied for centuries. Even today, the intricate workings of visual neurobiology are not fully understood, particularly in connection with higher brain function. However, the early visual system - that is, the "hardware" of vision - has been reasonably well mapped. Image courtesy of Howard Hughes Medical Institute "As shown in the above figure the reflected rays of the pencil pass through its lens. The inverted image of the pencil is directly projected onto the retina. The rod and cone cells of the retina are responsible of transmitting signals to the brain through the optical nerve. " - taken directly from an article on the U.S. Navy (IVRD) project here. A great deal of exciting research into the biological foundation of human perception is being conducted here at USC. Dr. Judith Hirsch, main speaker from our Animation Seminar, is among the key figures spearheading these initiatives. For further information on Dr. Hirsch's projects, including links to many of her articles, please refer to her faculty web page here or the Hirsch Laboratory home page. Further information on research into visual perception, as presented by Dr. Hirsch at our seminar on September 26th, is here.

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