Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Eye Tracking Young Children with Autism
Published on: March 27, 2012
Judging object velocity during smooth pursuit eye movements
1Neuro-ethology group, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Our study shows that perceived target velocity remains stable during eye movements under natural conditions. However, unusual laboratory conditions reveal the crucial role of extra-retinal signals in velocity judgments.
Area of Science:
- Visual perception
- Neuroscience
- Oculomotor control
Background:
- Judging object velocity is challenging due to constant eye movements.
- Distinguishing between retinal and extra-retinal information sources is key.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how humans perceive target velocity during eye movements.
- To determine when retinal versus extra-retinal information is used for velocity judgments.
- To examine factors influencing perceived velocity changes.
Main Methods:
- Subjects pursued a moving target with their eyes against a textured background.
- Background motion was manipulated to independently alter retinal rotation information.
- Target velocity changes were introduced during pursuit.
Main Results:
- Perceived target velocity remained constant under natural conditions with maintained relative motion.
- Unnatural laboratory conditions highlighted the involvement of extra-retinal signals in velocity perception.
- The study identified factors influencing the perception of velocity changes.
Conclusions:
- Under typical viewing conditions, perceived velocity is robust despite eye movements.
- Extra-retinal signals play a significant role in velocity judgments, particularly in non-naturalistic scenarios.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for visual perception research.
More Related Videos
06:46Investigating the Deployment of Visual Attention Before Accurate and Averaging Saccades via Eye Tracking and Assessment of Visual Sensitivity
Published on: March 18, 2019
07:24Using Eye-tracking to Assess the Relative Importance of Visual and Vestibular Input to Subcortical Motion Processing in the Roll Plane
Published on: August 22, 2025
Related Concept Videos
Average Velocity
Instantaneous Velocity - II
Velocity and Position by Graphical Method
Average and Instantaneous Velocity Vectors
Relative Motion Analysis - Velocity
When an external force is exerted, it sets the crank into a rotational movement. This, in turn, instigates the motion of the connecting rod, leading to what is referred to as a general plane motion. This process involves two key points - point A on the connecting rod...
Velocity of an Object