OPTICAL ALIGNMENT SYSTEM

An optical alignment system using at least one CCD array for positioning an instrument in a chosen relationship to an object is disclosed. Means for "electronically" aligning the optical components and providing a macro view of the object on a CRT without additional illumination are also disclosed. Alignment may be achieved manually, if the operator observes the position of symbols on a CRT that move in response to movement of the instrument by the operator using a joystick, or automatically using information provided by the array.