Optical camouflage is a kind of active camouflage in which one wears a fabric which projects an image of the scene directly behind the wearer, so that the wearer appears invisible. The concept exists for now only in theory and in proof-of-concept prototypes, although many experts consider it technically feasible. It is an example of active camouflage (or adaptive camouflage).

The idea appears in many fictional works, such as the William Gibson novel Neuromancer, where it is referred to as a "polychromatic suit," but achieved recognition in the successful sci-fi manga (and later anime) Ghost in the Shell. It has been also featured in the 2002 James Bond movie Die Another Day, as well as a similar technology appearing in the Metal Gear Solid video game series as well as the latest installment of the Splinter Cell series, Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory.

In 2003, three professors at University of Tokyo — Susumu Tachi, Masahiko Inami and Naoki Kawakami — created a prototypical camouflage system in which a video camera takes a shot of the background and displays it on the cloth. The same year Time magazine named it the coolest invention of 2003. [1]

While optical camouflage may not yet exist, it is worthwhile to point out that certain military units like the F-117 nighthawk Stealth Fighter and B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber do use material that make them difficult, if not impossible, to spot.

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• Optical Camouflage