We used a headset that transforms your brain activity into a light display — here's how it works

The University of Nottingham created a light display that is controlled by brain activity.
Using a headset we were able to control the light display with our minds.
The display is shaped like a human brain to represent which parts are in use when the headset is worn.

Business Insider was given the chance to control lights using nothing but the activity of our brains.

We wore a headset that uses a method of recording electrical activity in the brain called Electroencephalography (EEG).

The headset sent the signals to a light rig hanging above our head. Certain actions triggered different brain frequencies, by opening our eyes we were able to make the lights blue, which represents increased activity in the brain. This is because we are taking in more visual information for our brains to process.

By closing our eyes the lights change to red, this now represents a less active brain due to the lack of visual stimuli.

The University of Nottingham created the demonstration to show how our brains work, but the team are working on a new, more accurate method of scanning the brain.

They have designed a new Magnetoencephalography (MEG) scanner that is an alternative to traditional MRI scans. Traditional MRI scans require patients to sit still, which can be difficult for children and those with mobility issues. The new scanner they are developing is worn on the head like a helmet and allows patients to move freely.

It is still in an early stage of development and only two scanners exist in the UK, but the team aim to have it widely available within the next 10 years.

Produced and filmed by David Ibekwe. Original Reporting by Isobel Hamilton. Special Thanks to the University of Nottingham.

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