What is the desired outcome for cockpit lighting when using night vision goggles?

When using night vision goggles (NVGs), the desired outcome for cockpit lighting is to achieve the lowest easily readable level. This is crucial because NVGs amplify ambient light to help users see in low-light conditions. If the cockpit lighting is too bright, it can overwhelm the NVGs and create a phenomenon known as “blooming,” which obscures important visual information.

Having lighting set to a low level ensures that the cockpit instruments can still be read clearly without compromising the effectiveness of the NVGs. Properly adjusted lighting allows pilots to maintain their night vision adaptation, enabling them to see external references and maintain situational awareness while utilizing the NVGs. Thus, the balance of dim but readable light is vital for optimal performance and safety when navigating in low-light environments.