Electronic eye

Australian scientists have introduced the world's first ophthalmic device, designed to help older people with vision deprivation.

The device includes a microscope attached to the lens and sends the image to a processor placed in the patient's pocket. The processor transmits the signal to an implanted device in the eye.

This device activates the neurons that exist in the retina and sends images to the brain. The eyesight of the electronic eye user is not fully restored but the person will notice the bright spots that the brain will reconstruct into the image.

Australian scientists say the achievement is the biggest breakthrough since the Braille for the Blind was born 200 years ago. Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says the device is one of the "most important medical advances we've ever seen in life." The Australian government has provided $ 39 million for the facility.