The word "finderscope" is spelled as /ˈfaɪndəskəʊp/, with the first syllable pronounced as "fain" as in "rain", followed by "der" as in "her", then "scope" as in "dope". The spelled ending "-erscope" is derived from the root word "scope", denoting an instrument for observing or examining. The word "finderscope" refers to a device attached to a telescope that helps in locating and tracking celestial objects. It is commonly used by astronomers and stargazers.
A finderscope, also known as a finder or a finder scope, is a small, auxiliary telescope mounted on a larger telescope to aid in locating celestial objects or other distant targets. It serves as a wide-angle, low-magnification instrument that helps astronomers or amateur astronomers align their primary telescope with the desired object in the sky.
Functionally, a finderscope is used as a sighting device that provides a much wider field of view compared to the main telescope. This allows users to initially locate objects with ease, then center them within the finderscope's field of view before transitioning to the higher magnification of the main telescope. Finderscopes are often equipped with non-magnifying, or very low-magnification, eyepieces, typically ranging from 6x to 10x, allowing for a broader view and increased brightness.
Typically mounted above or beside the main telescope, finderscopes are aligned optically with the main instrument. This means that any movement made when aiming the finderscope will be replicated on the main telescope, ensuring that the desired object remains in the field of view when transitioning from the wide-angle finderscope to the higher magnification of the main telescope.
Overall, finderscopes are essential tools in astronomy, providing a practical and efficient means of locating celestial objects accurately and swiftly, contributing to a more seamless observing experience.
The word "finderscope" is formed by combining the words "finder" and "scope".
The term "finder" is derived from the Old English word "findan" which means "to find". "Findan" has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "finþanan" which also means "to find".
The word "scope" comes from the Latin word "scopos" which means "watcher" or "lookout". This Latin word is derived from the Greek word "skopos" which refers to a "target" or "object of attention".
The combination of "finder" and "scope" in "finderscope" is used to refer to the small telescope or sighting device attached to a larger telescope. It helps astronomers or observers to locate and aim their telescopes accurately at specific celestial objects of interest.