New technology allows astronauts to see more clearly

Living with little or no gravity presents astronauts with a wide array of challenges, but according to Discovery News, thanks to a new type of eyeglasses, astronauts will have an easier time seeing in space.

The news source reports that astronauts who require eyewear to read often face a number of obstacles. Classic bifocals were too limiting as astronauts commonly have to read items at odd angles .Additionally, it could be problematic for bifocal wearers to alternate between the bifocals and single vision glasses while in space.

The new technology, developed by a California-based company, includes two lenses that can be alternated with the flip of a switch on the side of the frames. While they may not be very stylish, NASA optometrist Robert Gibson told the news outlet that the wearers aren't particularly concerned with fashion.

"The astronauts don't really care what they look as long as they can see," he told the news source. "These give you crystal-clear optics without any distortion whatsoever."

For those still on earth, proper eyewear is equally important. AllAboutVision.com states that a recent survey found 88 percent of respondents felt comfort and fit were the most important aspects of a pair of glasses.