Study the nighttime visual attention in urban waterfront public space: Insights using mobile eye-tracking

The study aims to explore people's nighttime visual attention in urban waterfront public space during leisure activities, and analyze the impact of artificial lighting on visual attention. The study first utilized mobile eye-tracker to collect participants' eye-movement data in typical urban waterfront leisure routes, along with corresponding artificial lighting data. Next, based on the collected data, visual attention statistical datasets composed of two dependent variable indicators, visual attention distribution ratio and average attention fixation duration, were constructed. Then, impact analyses of artificial lighting on these indicators were conducted by controlling age groups and environment elements. Results show: 1) opposite scenery, greenery, recreation and sport facilities are the most visually attractive elements; 2) significant differences in visual attention preferences across three age groups were found on opposite scenery, ground, landscape structures, people, etc.; 3) nighttime visual attention induced by 11 types of environment elements is significantly impacted by artificial lighting. The maximum R 2 of vertical illuminance on visual attention can reach up to 0.603, while 0.472 for horizontal illuminance and 0.247 for correlated color temperature. Additionally, artificial lighting has the greatest impact on the elderly's visual attention. The results help to provide refined human-centered perception insights for improving nighttime environment quality.