Prismatic compass, after Charles Schmalcalder (1812) — Teylers Museum

Prismatic compass, after Charles Schmalcalder (1812)

1875 - 1899

This simple compass can be mounted on a stand and it is very suitable for land surveying. Via the wire sight attached to the compass, a bearing to a prominent point in the area is taken. It is possible to see this point and the reading point on the scale simultaneously via the prism. The scale is divided 0 to 360 degrees and the numbers are engraved in reverse for viewing through the prism. The use of a prism for reading the values on a compass was devised by Charles Schmalcalder in 1812. This instrument maker was born in Germany as Karl August Schmalkalder, but he changed his name when he moved to London. His idea makes it possible to measure angles extremely accurately. It is still used nowadays.

Administration name

Fysisch Kabinet

Title

Prismatic compass, after Charles Schmalcalder (1812)

Translated title

Prismatic compass, after Charles Schmalcalder (1812)

Creator

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Dating

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Reproduction reference

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