Japan Developing Artificial Eyesight from Edmonton Journal, February 5, 2001 Artificial eyesight, a concept once confined to the realms of science fiction and cult television, may soon become reality. Japanese scientists believe they will be able to restore vision to millions of blind people within a few years. Three universities are collaborating with the Japanese government in research supported by about $35 million in public funds to put "artificial eyes" on the market by 2005. http://www.edmontonjournal.com/technology1/stories/010205/5119475.html