Cite as:
Spillmann L, Anstis S, Kurtenbach A, Howard I, 1997, "Reversed visual motion and self-sustaining eye oscillations" Perception 26(7) 823 – 830
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Reversed visual motion and self-sustaining eye oscillations

Lothar Spillmann, Stuart Anstis, Anne Kurtenbach, Ian Howard

Received 22 October 1996, in revised form 7 April 1997

Abstract. A random-dot field undergoing counterphase flicker paradoxically appears to move in the same direction as head and eye movements, ie opposite to the optic-flow field. The effect is robust and occurs over a wide range of flicker rates and pixel sizes. The phenomenon can be explained by reversed phi motion caused by apparent pixel movement between successive retinal images. The reversed motion provides a positive feedback control of the display, whereas under normal conditions retinal signals provide a negative feedback. This altered polarity invokes self-sustaining eye movements akin to involuntary optokinetic nystagmus.

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