Tell me more ×
Physics Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for active researchers, academics and students of physics. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 3 down vote favorite

How can I reduce the double image seen when looking through binoculars? I recently got a new pair, but have been having troubles using them because I am seeing double...

share|improve this question

1 Answer

up vote 2 down vote accepted

The double image is almost certainly because you have the axes misaligned with your eyes.

The three adjustments you can make are (usually):

  • physical separation of the two lens assemblies
  • main focus
  • supplementary focus for one lens

(sometimes you have totally independent focus, but the above is more common)

The focus options will make things blurry, but having the barrels too wide apart, or too close together can mean your eyes can't easily resolve to a single image.

try adjusting the separation first. If that doesn't help, it is possible you have a badly aligned pair of binoculars...

share|improve this answer
It looks like that was it. Separating it out further allowed me to see normally. Thanks! – PearsonArtPhoto Feb 29 '12 at 21:10
1  
It's also possible you have a badly aligned pair of eyes. – Keith Thompson Feb 29 '12 at 23:18

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.