Binoculars

Binoculars are an optical aid used to view distant objects with both eyes, such as scenery, wildlife, or far off boats or ships. They can also be employed in basic astronomy, in lieu of a telescope.

They consist of twin barrels containing various lenses, one for each eye. These are hinged together so the binoculars can be adjusted to fit the user's eyes. A focusing knob is usually provided in the center to focus both sides at the same time.

While most binoculars are simply designed to be purely functional, opera glasses are a kind of binoculars that are usually rather ornate in finish. They are used to improve the patron's view of the action on stage. The fancy form fits in with the formal nature of a performance and the highly decorated interior of most theaters.