Off-axis

Describing a position or alignment that is not on or along a primary or central axis; situated or directed away from a main line or point of reference. It implies a deviation from a direct, perpendicular, or aligned position. Often used in technical contexts like optics, astronomy, and engineering, but also applicable to more general situations involving perspective or direction. The degree of 'off-axis' can vary, ranging from slight misalignments to significant displacements. This deviation can be intentional, for example, to avoid obstruction, or unintentional, resulting from errors in setup or manufacturing. The term highlights a non-linear or indirect relationship to a central point or direction, making it critical in fields that demand precision and accuracy.

Off-axis meaning with examples

• The telescope's secondary mirror is positioned off-axis to reflect light towards the eyepiece, avoiding obstruction from the primary mirror. This design ensures a clear view without blocking the incoming light path.
• During the experiment, the camera needed to be adjusted off-axis to capture the object from a specific angle, allowing a better view of its features. The off-axis position enabled detailed analysis.
• The artist deliberately framed the photograph off-axis, creating a dynamic composition that drew the viewer's eye across the scene instead of focusing on the center.
• Due to a manufacturing defect, the lens was slightly off-axis, causing a slight distortion in the images it produced. The problem was discovered during quality control and fixed.