A periscope is a tubular device that allows you to see a region that cannot be seen with the eyes alone.
A periscope is a tube- shaped element that, thanks to the use of prisms or mirrors , allows you to see a region that is impossible to see with your eyes alone.
The etymological origin of this cultism is found in Greek, which is the result of the sum of two components: the prefix peri- , which can be translated as "around" ; and the verb skopein , which is synonymous with "observe" .
Periscope utility
Through its particular design, a periscope makes it possible for someone who is hidden in a trench or other similar space to see without revealing themselves . Typically, it has parallel mirrors that form an angle of forty-five degrees to the line that connects them. These mirrors are installed at the upper end of the tube, while the user places their view at the lower end. This way, you can see without having to look out.
If they add magnifying lenses, periscopes even allow you to observe at great distances. This feature is present in the periscopes that operate on submarines and are used to see above the surface of the water while the vehicle moves underwater.
Submarines have a periscope.
Its uses
Specifically, we can determine that there are several uses for the periscope, among which we would highlight the following:
- For observation of airplanes and ships.
- For launching torpedoes .
- In astronomical navigation in immersion.
- To study and analyze the distance to attack the enemy.
- In navigation, they are coastal markings.
Classification of periscopes
Historically, among the most significant periscopes were the attack periscopes which, as their name indicates, were used to carry out an offensive action. However, on certain occasions they were also used as an observation system; that is, replacing the so-called observation periscopes .
The latter were identified because they had a lot of lighting, transmitted light better and were more complete. So much so that, on many occasions, they were used to carry out even night attacks.
It should be noted that the origins of the periscope are found in the figure of Sarah Mather who, in 1845 , patented a device that allowed observation of the depths of the ocean in navigation vessels. After her, they developed their system and came closer to the periscope as we understand it today figures of the stature of Simon Lake or Morgan Robertson .
homemade devices
With cardboard boxes, glue, scissors and two mirrors, it is possible to build a homemade periscope .
You just have to imitate the shape of these devices and glue the mirrors so that they are opposite. These cardboard periscopes are toys greatly appreciated by children.
"The Periscope", a TV program
"El periscopio" , finally, was the title of a television program that, in the 1990s , was hosted by the actress and model Graciela Alfano in Argentina .
This television program focused on shows, with interviews with various personalities in the environment.