In thermal imaging technology, spot size is one of the parameters that directly impacts detection capability, measurement accuracy, and overall system performance. Put simply, spot size refers to the smallest area that a thermal imaging system can effectively resolve at a given distance. This parameter determines what objects can be detected and accurately measured in a thermal image, making it essential knowledge for anyone seeking optimal performance from thermal devices. The physical principles behind spot size relate to the optical resolution of the system, which is influenced by the detector resolution, lens quality, and distance to the target. As distance increases, the spot size grows proportionally, reducing the ability to detect smaller objects or temperature differences. This relationship follows optical physics principles where the smallest resolvable detail is limited by both the optical system and the fundamental wave properties of infrared radiation. According to research published by the European Institute of Thermal Imaging: “Insufficient understanding of spot size calculations accounts for approximately 64% of accuracy issues reported in field-deployed thermal imaging systems, particularly in applications requiring precise measurement or small target detection.” For users of advanced thermal systems like the Pixfra Sirius HD Series with its 1280×1024 HD sensor, understanding spot size calculation ensures the full capabilities of these high-resolution systems can be leveraged for maximum detection performance at optimal operational distances. How to do Spot Size Calculation The calculation of spot size in thermal imaging follows a straightforward mathematical relationship that connects optical parameters with measurement distance. The basic formula for calculating spot size is: Spot Size = (Distance to Target × IFOV) Where IFOV (Instantaneous Field of View) represents the angular resolution of the system measured in milliradians (mrad) or degrees. The IFOV is determined by the detector size and the focal length of the optics: IFOV =

Thermal imaging technology has revolutionized the way we detect water leaks by leveraging the fundamental principle that water affects surface temperatures in predictable ways. As water leaks through structures, it creates temperature differentials that become visible to thermal imaging devices even when the moisture itself remains hidden from view. This capability stems from water’s high thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity, which cause it to absorb and transfer heat differently than surrounding dry materials. When water infiltrates building materials or ground surfaces, it creates distinct thermal patterns that appear as temperature anomalies on thermal imaging displays. The physics behind this detection method relies on several key properties: water typically evaporates and creates cooling effects on surfaces; it changes the thermal conductivity of materials it saturates; and it retains temperature differently than dry materials during ambient temperature fluctuations. High-sensitivity thermal imaging devices, such as the Pixfra Sirius Series with its exceptional ≤18mK NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference), can detect these subtle temperature variations with remarkable precision, revealing water intrusion long before visible damage occurs.Besides this application,there are many other applications, together,they make thermal imaging cameras useful According to research published by the European Building Research Institute: “Thermal imaging detection can identify water leaks in building structures up to 6-8 weeks before visible signs appear, potentially reducing water damage restoration costs by 45-60% through early intervention.” This early detection capability makes thermal imaging an invaluable tool for property maintenance, especially in regions like Central and Northern Europe where building water damage represents a significant annual economic impact. Advanced Thermal Technology: Beyond Basic Infrared The effectiveness of water leak detection through thermal imaging depends significantly on the technological sophistication of the equipment used. Modern thermal imaging systems have advanced well beyond basic infrared cameras, incorporating multiple enhancements that dramatically improve detection capabilities for

At the core of thermal imaging’s utility lies a fundamental principle of physics: all objects with temperatures above absolute zero emit infrared radiation.This involves the science and technology behind thermal imaging, thermal imaging cameras detect this naturally emitted radiation, specifically in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectrum (typically 8-14 μm wavelength), and convert these invisible heat signatures into visible images through specialized sensors and processing algorithms. This capability to visualize heat rather than light represents a paradigm shift in observation technology.   Unlike conventional optical systems that require visible light to function, thermal imaging operates independently of lighting conditions by detecting temperature differentials. The microbolometer sensors at the heart of modern thermal devices, such as those found in Pixfra’s Sirius Series Thermal Monoculars, measure minute temperature variations with remarkable precision—often as sensitive as ≤18mK NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference). This sensitivity allows the visualization of thermal contrasts that would be entirely imperceptible to the human eye or traditional optical devices. According to research from the European Thermal Imaging Association: “The fundamental advantage of thermal imaging technology lies in its ability to provide information entirely unavailable to conventional optical systems, revealing thermal anomalies and patterns invisible to the naked eye regardless of ambient lighting conditions.” This foundational capability creates applications across numerous fields where the detection of temperature differences provides critical information for decision-making, from wildlife management to building inspection, security, and beyond. Superior All-Condition Performance in Challenging Environments One of thermal imaging’s most significant advantages is its consistent performance across environmental conditions that would render conventional optics ineffective. Thermal cameras maintain their detection capabilities in complete darkness, through light fog, smoke, dust, and light precipitation—conditions that severely compromise traditional optical systems. This environmental resilience stems from the physical properties of long-wave infrared radiation, which penetrates many atmospheric obscurants more effectively than

To address the question of whether thermal scopes can see infrared, we must first understand the relationship between thermal imaging and the infrared spectrum. The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses radiation of varying wavelengths, from gamma rays (shortest) to radio waves (longest). Infrared radiation sits between visible light and microwave radiation on this spectrum, covering wavelengths from approximately 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter. It’s crucial to recognize that infrared (IR) is a broad category that includes multiple sub-bands. Near-infrared (NIR) ranges from 0.7-1.4 μm, short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) from 1.4-3 μm, mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) from 3-8 μm, and long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) from 8-15 μm. What we commonly call “thermal imaging” primarily operates in the MWIR and LWIR bands, detecting the heat signatures naturally emitted by objects,and this feature is a major advantage for hunters. According to the International Commission on Illumination: “All objects with temperatures above absolute zero emit infrared radiation. The wavelength distribution and intensity of this radiation are directly related to the object’s temperature.” This scientific principle forms the foundation of thermal imaging technology. Modern thermal scopes like the Pixfra Pegasus Pro Series and Chiron LRF Series are specifically designed to detect and visualize MWIR or LWIR radiation, which corresponds to the heat signatures emitted by animals, humans, and objects in the environment. Therefore, thermal scopes do indeed “see” infrared radiation—specifically, the mid to long-wavelength infrared emissions that correspond to heat signatures. The Technical Distinction: Active vs. Passive Infrared Technologies An important technical distinction exists between the different technologies used to detect infrared radiation. This distinction helps clarify what exactly thermal scopes can and cannot detect in terms of infrared light. Passive Infrared Detection (Thermal Imaging): Devices like the Pixfra Sirius Series Thermal Monocular use uncooled microbolometer sensors to detect naturally emitted infrared radiation (heat) without requiring any external light source.

Thermal imaging technology has revolutionized the hunting landscape by fundamentally changing how hunters detect, identify, and track game. Unlike traditional night vision that amplifies available light, thermal imaging detects heat signatures emitted by all objects, creating a distinct visual representation based on temperature differences. This core capability makes thermal scopes uniquely valuable in hunting scenarios where visual identification through conventional optics would be challenging or impossible.It should be noted that different countries have varies of restrictions on thermal imaging technology, make sure to check the related regulations before using it. The technology works by detecting infrared radiation (heat) emitted by animals, which typically stand out prominently against cooler backgrounds regardless of ambient lighting conditions. Modern thermal imaging devices, such as the Pixfra Pegasus Pro Series with its exceptional ≤18mK NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference), can detect minute temperature variations, allowing hunters to identify game at significant distances even through environmental obstacles like light fog or sparse vegetation. According to research published in the European Journal of Wildlife Research: “Thermal imaging technology has demonstrated detection efficiency improvements of 65-78% in low-light hunting scenarios compared to traditional optics, with particularly significant advantages in densely vegetated environments.” This fundamental capability addresses one of hunting’s primary challenges: reliably locating game in suboptimal conditions. For hunters pursuing nocturnal species like wild boar or managing predators like foxes, thermal imaging provides detection capabilities that traditional optics simply cannot match, regardless of quality or price point.   Enhanced Detection Range and Identification Precision The detection range offered by quality thermal scopes represents a significant advantage for hunters across various environments and hunting scenarios. Premium thermal imaging devices can detect large game animals at distances exceeding 2,000 meters in optimal conditions, though identification range is typically more limited. This extended detection capability allows hunters to spot game long

Spain maintains one of Europe’s more progressive regulatory frameworks regarding thermal imaging technology, reflecting the country’s practical approach to wildlife management challenges and hunting traditions. The legal landscape governing thermal scopes and similar devices in Spain is primarily defined by the Spanish Arms Regulation (Reglamento de Armas) and hunting regulations administered by regional authorities (Comunidades Autónomas). These regulations have evolved significantly in recent years, particularly in response to wildlife management needs such as controlling the growing wild boar population. Most of the European nations have their own regulations about thermal imaging technology,  however unlike some European nations that impose strict prohibitions on thermal imaging for hunting, France has adopted a relatively progressive stance on thermal imaging technology,and Spain has adopted a more permissive approach that recognizes the practical applications of this technology. This regulatory environment has created opportunities for hunters, wildlife managers, and security professionals to legally utilize advanced thermal imaging solutions. For manufacturers and distributors of high-quality thermal devices like Pixfra’s Pegasus Pro Series or Chiron LRF Series, understanding Spain’s specific regulatory framework is essential for effective market operations. The Spanish regulatory approach balances technological access with responsible use requirements, creating a framework that permits ownership while ensuring appropriate application of these sophisticated optical systems.   Current Legal Status: Ownership and Usage Rights in Spain As of 2025, owning thermal imaging devices in Spain, including thermal scopes, is legal for civilians with appropriate licensing. Spain classifies thermal imaging devices not as weapons themselves but as optical aids that may be used in conjunction with firearms when properly authorized. This classification creates a regulatory environment more accommodating than several other European nations. The legal framework can be summarized as follows: Aspect Status Regulatory Authority Ownership Legal with proper licensing Spanish Arms Regulation Hunting Use Permitted for specified species Regional Hunting Authorities