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Aeromedical factorsQuestion 747 of 934

How should a pilot look at an object at night to use the rods?

  1. Look directly at the center of the object
  2. Look 30° above or below the object
  3. Close one eye and stare directly at it
  4. Look 5° to 10° off center of the object
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Correct answer: Look 5° to 10° off center of the object

The cones in the fovea lose sensitivity at night. Looking off center exposes the rods to the image.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 17: Aeromedical Factors — Vision in Flight, page 444

Practice aeromedical factors

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026