This Optical Illusion Will Blow Your Mind

Have you ever wondered if staring at a screen all day is messing with your eyesight? We've got a fun way to find out: The latest video from AsapSCIENCE offers a quick vision test featuring some familiar faces. As the video explains, you'll probably start by seeing a somewhat blurry photo of Albert Einstein. But, if you move away from the screen or blur your eyes a little bit, you'll start to see Marilyn Monroe instead. Don't worry, that means your vision is fine! What's happening here is that the two images have been combined, but not equally. The picture of Marilyn only has the soft outlines, which are easy to see even at a distance. But, Albert's picture is only comprised of hard, detailed lines. Those are nearly impossible to see at a distance, but take over when the picture is closer up. So, if you can see Einstein up close, but Marilyn far away, then you're good. Otherwise, it might be time to see your ophthalmologist. Although they've existed in different forms for centuries, the use of these kinds of "hybrid" image tests in research was pioneered by cognitive perception specialist Aude Olivia, PhD, at MIT. These tests reveal the different levels at which our visual perception system operates, and how those systems can be vulnerable to illusions — sort of like a memorable situation with a certain dress. To get the full scoop, check out the video below.