Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Binoculars

                There are several types or styles, a few of which I will discuss briefly: The Galilean Binocular design was used by the military up until the end of the 19th century.  This style has the advantage of presenting an erect image but has a narrow field of view and is not capable of very high magnification. This type of construction is still used in less expensive models such as opera glasses.

7 x 40? … 8 x 50?  … 10 x 60? = Magnification and Objective Diameter…

Magnification: A factor ‘7’, ‘8’ or ‘10’ produces an image as if one were 7, 8 or 10 times closer to the object being viewed.  



                                                                                        
Objective diameter: The diameter of the objective lens or front lens’ (‘40’, ‘50’, ‘60’) of the binoculars; this is usually represented in ‘mm’ (millimeters) and determines how much light is gathered to help form the image.  The higher the mm the sharper the image, so most definitely guys and gals, in this case, bigger is better.


Today’s modern binoculars are often used by amateur astronomers; with their wide field of view binoculars are useful for comet and supernova seeking (when giant binoculars are used) or for general observation (when portable binoculars are used).  The Galilean moons of Jupiter are invisible to the naked eye but can more readily be seen with binoculars.     Although visible, when unaided in pollution-free skies, Uranus and 4 Vesta (the largest asteroid in the asteroid belt) do require the aid of binoculars for easy detection.  ... Enter Astronomer Binoculars.


Here is an image of a binocular set that works great for the amateur star gazer: 



An excellent set used by many amateur astronomers is the Oberwerk 20 x 80 which is usually priced at about $200.00 and may be found and purchased through almost any on-line store.   If you‘re a serious star gazer you might consider trying the Oberwerk 25/40 x 100 mm Astronomy Binocular Set; this thing even comes with its on tripod (in most cases at least) at with no additional charge!  The bad news is that it typically sells in the neighborhood of $1500.00.


Binoculars typically used for astrology, have magnifications of 12.5 and greater.  However as a potential buyer, you should know that a magnification of ten (10 x) is usually considered the most that can be held “steady” without a tripod or other mount.  Further, please keep in mind that binoculars geared towards astronomical uses provide the most satisfying views with a larger “objective diameter” that is in the 70 mm or 80 mm range.


Night vision is now available to those of us who experience “night blindness” or simply can’t see well in the dark by way of Night Vision Binoculars.  This optical device is comprised of high-quality image intensifier tubes and optics that amplifies existing light. This allows anyone to see in conditions too dark for the naked eye.   Such night vision binoculars / goggles enhance images with low light environments. During activities such as camping, exploring caves, patrolling warehouses or other comparable locations night vision binoculars are a must have item but they too can be quite expensive.

Binoculars in general have long been of great benefit to the many endeavors / adventures of man kind. This has been very brief and basic over-view regarding binoculars and there many useful purposes; be it an evening at the opera or a major military campaign.  Here's to hopping that this critique has been of some small benefit to everyone.


                
Information Sources:


1 comment:

  1. Thanks, you made it easy to understand :)

    ReplyDelete