An optical system has been developed to record useful streak images on Polaroid film. A revolving prism sweeps the image in a circular path, thereby confining it within the boundaries of the Polaroid film format. Present applications have not required high writing speeds, a typical rate of 3000 cm/sec has been used, but much higher rates than this are possible. The continuous writing feature of the circular sweep obviates the need to synchronize the camera and event. Combined with the advantages of Polaroid film, the circular sweep camera makes a useful instrument for analyzing arcs, sparks, and other self‐illuminating or highly illuminated phenomena.

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