A submarine periscope is an essential tool for every submarine in the naval fleet. It allows the crew to view their surroundings and navigate safely through the water. In this article, we will explore how a submarine periscope works and its importance in submarine technology.
What is a submarine periscope?
A submarine periscope is a submersible viewing device that allows the crew to see above the waterline while the submarine remains submerged. The periscope is mounted on the top of the submarine’s conning tower and consists of a series of mirrors and lenses that reflect and refract light.
How does a submarine periscope work?
A submarine periscope works by using mirrors and lenses to reflect and refract light. The periscope consists of two main parts; the eyepiece and the objective lens. The eyepiece is located in the submarine’s control room, while the objective lens is located on the periscope’s top, which is above the waterline.
When the periscope is extended, the objective lens reflects light from above the waterline down to the eyepiece through a series of mirrors. The mirrors are positioned at an angle so that they can reflect the light around corners and provide a 360-degree view.
The periscope’s lenses are specially designed to allow for underwater vision. They use a process called refraction, which bends light as it passes through the water, to provide a clear image of the underwater environment.
Importance of the submarine periscope
The submarine periscope is an essential tool for naval navigation and the safety of the submarine’s crew. It allows the submarine to remain submerged while still being able to view its surroundings, which is crucial in avoiding underwater obstacles and detecting potential threats.
In addition, the periscope’s 360-degree view provides the crew with situational awareness, allowing them to make informed decisions on how to navigate the submarine through the water safely.
Advancements in submarine periscope technology
Over the years, the submarine periscope has undergone significant technological advancements. Modern submarine periscopes now use digital cameras and high-resolution displays to provide a clearer and more detailed image of the surroundings.
Some submarines also use a photonics mast, which is a non-rotating periscope that uses fiber-optic cables to transmit images and data to the control room. The photonics mast allows for a more extensive range of vision and can be operated remotely, reducing the risk to the crew.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the submarine periscope is an essential tool in submarine technology, allowing the crew to navigate safely through the water while remaining submerged. By using mirrors and lenses, the periscope can reflect and refract light to provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings. With advancements in technology, the periscope has become even more advanced, using digital cameras and fiber-optic cables to transmit data and images to the control room. The submarine periscope will continue to play a crucial role in naval navigation and the safety of the submarine’s crew.
