 |  |
Macrobinoculars were handheld viewing devices that allowed users to observe distant objects. Some models were able to see into space from the surface of a planet.
Characteristics[]
A formation of tanks is viewed through macrobinoculars
Macrobinoculars were small devices with two cushioned eyecups and a top-mounted rangefinder. The standard pair of macrobinoculars included an internal readout that provided information on distance and elevation, and many could record and play back images. Although macrobinoculars were designed to be used either during the day or at night, some models specialized in the latter, such as the Nightview macrobinoculars introduced by Naescorcom.
Macrobinoculars were similar in function to electrobinoculars, although they lacked several features such as image enhancement chips and the light-adjustment circuitry. This meant that macrobinoculars returned a truer, if less-detailed image, and were not as useful when used in the dark. However, macrobinoculars were more robust and the device's optics were harder to damage and less likely to need recalibration.[1]
However, they were cheaper than electrobinoculars and more readily available in remote areas such as the Outer Rim Territories. Their resilience made them a popular choice among mercenaries. Some macrobinoculars were worn by clone troopers over helmet visors, often with polarized lenses.
History[]
Obi-Wan Kenobi using macrobinoculars on Geonosis.
Compact macrobinoculars were used by members of the Jedi Order while on field missions across the galaxy. Obi-Wan Kenobi carried a pair of these spyglasses with him prior to and during the Clone Wars. Following the attempted assassination of Padmé Amidala, Obi-Wan tracked Jango Fett to Geonosis. There, he spied on a meeting between Count Dooku and the leaders of the newly formed Confederacy of Independent Systems. During the final days of the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan again used his macrobinoculars to spy on a Separatist meeting between General Grievous and the Separatist Council members in Pau City, prior to their escape from Utapau.
Notable models[]
- Model 1000 macrobinoculars
- MB450 macrobinoculars
- Nightview macrobinoculars
- Peer macrobinoculars
- Sporting macrobinoculars
- Model TT4 Holorecording Macrobinoculars
- EV2 discreet reconnaissance macrobinoculars
