Forensic lights, also known as forensic light sources, are specialized lighting devices used in forensic investigations to detect and analyze physical evidence. These lights emit specific wavelengths of light that can cause certain substances to fluoresce or emit light of a different color, making them easier to identify and analyze.
There are several types of forensic lights, each with its own specific purpose. Here are some examples:
Ultraviolet (UV) Lights: UV lights emit a specific wavelength of light that can cause certain substances to fluoresce, including bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and saliva. UV lights are often used in crime scene investigations to locate hidden or difficult-to-see evidence.
Alternate Light Sources (ALS): ALS lights are similar to UV lights but can emit a wider range of wavelengths of light. They can be used to detect a variety of substances, including fibers, gunshot residue, and other trace evidence.
Infrared (IR) Lights: IR lights emit light in the infrared range, which is outside the range of human vision. IR lights can be used to detect hidden objects, such as fingerprints or other marks, that may not be visible under normal lighting conditions.
Laser Lights: Laser lights emit a narrow beam of light that can be used to visualize evidence or to mark the location of evidence for later collection and analysis.