Historical information

The Universal Stereoscope was used to view overlapping stereo aerial photography in three dimensions (3D). It consists of magnifying lenses, an optical train including glass prisms and mirrors that are protected by sliding metal covers all suspended on a pair of fold out adjustable legs. The stereoscope is coloured military olive drab green. This Universal Stereoscope was produced in Australia in 1940 for Military use. It was originally produced with a timber protecting carry box that is missing. It was used extensively by members of the Australian Survey Corps during WWII in many theatres of War for viewing and annotating aerial photography. Item 6205.6P, photograph 6205.1P shows the Universal Stereoscope in use by the Australian Survey Corps annotating aerial photography.

Physical description

The Universal Stereoscope was used to view overlapping stereo aerial photography in three dimensions (3D). It consists of magnifying lenses, an optical train including glass prisms and mirrors that are protected by sliding metal covers all suspended on a pair of fold out adjustable legs. The stereoscope is coloured military olive drab green.

Inscriptions & markings

"DC-1940 Serial No 550", "D V D", "Made in Australia"
Plate on the underside reads " This stereoscope was donated to the Ex Fortuna Survey Association by the Eaglehawk Recycle Shop February 2015"