Photoptics

Photoptics is a mod in active development that adds various optical instruments to Minecraft, such as spyglasses and binoculars. Currently, the project is in the prototype stage, so many features will be modified or expanded in future updates.

Optical Instruments

The mod includes several types of binoculars and handheld spyglasses. Basic versions of these devices are truly simple - they are crafted from iron and glass, activated with right-click, and zoom is controlled using the "+" and "-" keys.

More advanced versions - golden and diamond binoculars with red, green, and blue tints - offer enhanced viewing capabilities. Their creation requires gold or diamond ingots, blocks, and stained glass of corresponding colors.

The pinnacle of development in the current version are the ultimate binoculars and spyglasses, possessing incredible magnification power and light gathering ability that can illuminate darkened areas. Their crafting requires significant resources, including Ender Pearls and an enchanting table.

Celestial Observation System

For full functionality of the observation system, installation of the Stellar Sky mod is recommended. This system allows players to receive rewards for observing specific celestial objects through a spyglass. To activate observation, press the F key (or Shift+X in version 1.9.4) while aiming the device directly at the object.

The system settings are fully configurable - you can edit the list of objects and their corresponding reward commands. Various observation modes are available: repeatable with waiting intervals or limited by number of attempts.

Management Commands

• /observe setlimit - sets the observation limit for player and object
• /observe resetcount - resets the observation counter, allowing infinite repetition
• /observe setwait - sets waiting time until next observation with specified units (days, seconds, ticks)

Reward commands can use special parameters:

• @p - the player conducting observation
• @o - identifier of the observed celestial object
• @x, @y, @z - player coordinates

Dependencies and Compatibility

The mod requires mandatory installation of Stellar API. For using observation features, Stellar Sky is highly recommended.

Gallery

Using basic binoculars:

Combination with Stellar Sky:

Videos

Showcase videos:

Planned Features

Future updates will include portable telescopes on tripods and stationary telescopes in domes. A modular system is also planned, where optical instrument characteristics will depend on used materials, construction, and skill level in lens and mirror crafting.

Processes for manufacturing lenses and mirrors with player skill progression will be added. A light-based energy system will be implemented, using various wavelengths to analyze sky information and generate power.

Players will gain multiple methods for observing and analyzing celestial objects, which will not only improve their abilities but also provide various effects from studied principles. Visible stars and celestial bodies will influence the player after being examined.

Microscopes for studying blocks and items are planned for later implementation, allowing creation of more advanced equipment. Focus adjustment functionality will be added later due to limited visual effects support in Minecraft.