Could "night vision contact lenses" become a reality?

Theoretically, yes.  Researchers at the University of Michigan have created a graphene-based material that detects infrared light.

"We can make the entire design super-thin," said Zhaohui Zhong, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering. "It can be stacked on a contact lens or integrated with a cell phone."  The material worked at room temperature, which is another accomplishment.

More information at Popular Science.