It was in the early 1950s through the discovery of Herchel way back into the 19th century that the near infra red technology came about
. The use of near infrared technology was first used in optical world when the NIR infrared spectroscopy was used, together with other device of spectroscopes, first and foremost in order to see the mid-infrared wavelengths or the ultraviolet lights. It was more or less 20 years after that the NIR spectroscope became a standalone device in the field of chemical analysis.
Further advancement in research and technology gave way to a more powerful version of the infrared spectroscope. It was during the middle of the 1980s up to the early years of 1990s when the use of light fiber optics was introduced in order to improve the monochromator detectors. With the added function of the NIR infrared spectroscopes, it is now more useful in a variety of field. The improved device can now also be utilized in the field of physics, medicine and physiology.
In todays time, hospitals are making use of the infrared technology by means of near infrared reflectance instruments. It is used to monitor patients in terms of measuring the content of oxygen in the hemoglobin and even on assessing brain functions, a function typical of the MRI. It is seen as a non-invasive alternative to MRI, which is very useful especially in cases when an MRI is not advisable such as in the case of infants and children. It has its limitations though for near infrared spectroscopes is able to scan only the cortical tissues of the brain.
Near infrared spectroscopy is not only functional in the field of pediatric care but also in post-cardiac surgery. It is seen as a painless way to measure the amount of venous oxygen saturation.
NIR technology is also big in the world of chemical analysis. It is used in terms of the analysis and calibration of various chemical contents like hydroxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.
In the scientific field of astronomy, the use of NIR technology is also apparent. It can determine the spectral type of stars and study the atmosphere of cool stars.