Eye stabilization

Abstract

This chapter summarizes how visual feedback could be used to stabilize the line of sight and optimize vision during attempted fixation of a stationary target. Quantitative features of oculomotor noise that causes drifts of the eye away from the target are analyzed. The sources of such noise, including the ripples in eye position due to muscle fiber twitches, and drifts of the eye away from the visual target due to vestibular imbalance, are examined. Evidence for a promptly responding stabilization system, distinct from optokinetic or pursuit eye movements is reviewed. Smooth eye movements that negate drifts of the eyes, which are discussed here, are distinct from microsaccades, which are discussed in chapter "Behavior of the saccadic system: Metrics of timing and accuracy" by Robinson.

Keywords: Fixation; Neural noise; Optokinetic system; Smooth pursuit; Stabilization; Visual feedback.