Scientists claim they have discovered a new colour called ‘olo’

In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Washington, a new color named 'olo' has been identified, although only five individuals have witnessed it through a sophisticated laser technique. This discovery, published in the journal Science Advances, has ignited discussions in both the scientific community and the general public regarding the limits of human perception and the nature of color itself. The innovative 'Oz Vision System,' named after the Emerald City in 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', employs pinpoint lasers to stimulate the M cone cells in the human retina, which are sensitive to medium wavelengths of light. The participants reported seeing a hue described as an exceptionally saturated shade of blue-green. However, it’s crucial to note that this color cannot be seen without the aid of lasers; it lies beyond the capabilities of normal human vision, leading to critiques from some experts who argue that it blurs the line between perception and technological manipulation. Professor Ren Ng, one of the study’s authors, characterized the color as 'jaw-dropping' and emphasized that 'olo' surpasses any color previously experienced in the real world. The findings can potentially unlock doors for understanding visual perception and developing treatments for color blindness, which affects a substantial segment of the population. Conversely, some critics, such as vision scientist John Barbur, argue that what has been identified is not a new color but rather a more intense green perceived under specific conditions. This brings to light an important aspect of scientific discourse where emerging findings invite both excitement and skepticism, indicating the need for rigorous peer review and broader examinations before mainstream acceptance. While the implications of this discovery could enhance our comprehension of visual perception, the method of achieving it raises questions about accessibility and the ethics of manipulating sensory experiences. As technology progresses, the way we perceive reality could evolve, challenging our understanding of what is 'real' versus what is created. This research thus serves not only as a scientific advance but also as a conversation starter about human cognition, the arts, and the psychology of perception, revealing how delicate and complex our interactions with the natural world can be. In summary, the claim of 'olo' resonates with both enthusiasm for innovation and caution against overstating scientific breakthroughs without broader consensus. This discovery signifies the beauty of scientific inquiry—where each new finding opens the door to more questions than answers, encapsulating the continuing journey of exploration in understanding ourselves and our universe.