Geodesy is at present faced with tremendous tasks of world-wide scope. Main triangulations constituting the basis for a reliable determination of the earth's figure, the establishment of absolute coordinates and consistent large-scale mapping have, in the course of the past 150 years, been completed only to a very limited extent. In order to speed up efforts the customary methods and instruments of observation should be revised on the grounds of recent experiences made in the field of physics. Numerous nations have already made valuable contributions and an appreciable increase of results has been reached by means of the optical micrometer, theodolites with photographic registration, steel towers etc. In order to overcome obstacles due to unfavorable atmospheric conditions, the electric eye has been designed, replacing visual observation by photo-electric indication. The present note is in particular a report on the present stage of experiments made by the Institut fur angewandte Geodasie. These experiments have proved that generally speaking the new device is well suited for the purpose on hand. However, further efforts will be required for creating an apparatus thoroughly reliable also in the field.