Because total darkness would have no available light to amplify, it would seemingly be impossible to see, even with a night vision scope. By itself, a night vision scope is useless in total darkness. But, because the illumination screen is light sensitive, and infrared is within the light spectrum, I would highly suggest when purchasing a night vision scope, to be sure it comes equipped with an infrared attachment. In this respect, one can actually see, through night vision technology, into an otherwise invisible spectrum of light. This can easily be demonstrated with a television remote control.
Remote controls communicate information to appliances using infrared technology.
Turn out the lights and close all the blinds so that it is very dark. Although it is in operation, you will see nothing. Next, point the remote at the mirror and press any button. Still, you will not see anything with the naked eye. This is again because IR light is not within the human perception of visible light.