What wattage light bulb is typically used for a night vision goggle (NVG) test lane?

The typical wattage light bulb used for a night vision goggle (NVG) test lane is 7 watts. This wattage is specifically chosen to provide adequate illumination that is compatible with the sensitivity range of NVGs. A 7-watt bulb emits a level of light that allows the goggles to effectively simulate low-light conditions, which is essential for training and ensuring proper functionality and performance of night vision equipment.

Using a bulb with too much wattage could lead to an excessive amount of light, overpowering the goggles and potentially causing issues with testing. Conversely, a bulb that is too dim would not replicate the low-light conditions accurately, making it challenging for aircrews to assess the effectiveness of their NVGs in real-world scenarios. The selection of the 7-watt bulb strikes a balance that ensures optimal conditions for NVG operation and testing.