Factors influencing velocity coding in the human visual system

Differential velocity detection in the fovea was measured over a wide range of velocities (0.25-256 degrees/sec). Differential thresholds were minimum (about 6%) for intermediate velocities (4-32 degrees/sec). Velocity judgements were shown not to depend on duration judgments. The U-shaped curve relating differential velocity detection and velocity was preserved at different background levels and different contrasts. The physiological correlates of these observations are discussed.