Wild Theodolite. Image taken at the University Observatory, Vienna. The theodolite is an angle measuring instrument used in geodesy (surveying) to measure horizontal directions and zenith or vertical angles. For this purpose, it is set up plumb above...
show moreWild Theodolite. Image taken at the University Observatory, Vienna. The theodolite is an angle measuring instrument used in geodesy (surveying) to measure horizontal directions and zenith or vertical angles. For this purpose, it is set up plumb above a point by means of a tripod. A special type is the suspended theodolite, which is mainly used in mining. A theodolite essentially consists of a telescopic sight, a vertical and a horizontal graduated circle and several spirit levels. The latter are used for perpendicular alignment of the instrument (leveling). A reticle is integrated into the telescopic sight, with which the target is aimed. In most cases, the set angles are displayed and/or stored by the device in the unit Gon (100 Gon = 90°). The origin of the term is unclear. Possibly it originated from the English the "alhidade", from Arabic العضادة / al-ʿiḍāda /'pointing/ pitch circle'. 1961
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