An optical instrument is a device that uses light to observe or measure objects. Common examples of optical instruments include lasers, telescopes, microscopes, and kaleidoscopes. A LASER is a device that emits a beam of light that is highly focused and can be used for cutting, welding, and measuring distances. A TELESCOPE is an instrument used to observe distant objects in the sky, such as stars and planets. A MICROSCOPE is an instrument used to magnify small objects, such as cells and bacteria, so they can be studied in detail. Finally, a kaleidoscope is an instrument that uses mirrors and colored pieces of glass to create beautiful patterns.