Laparoscope

A laparoscope comprises an elongated insertion tube having an open distal end. Optical means are provided for conducting an optical image of a target. The optical means includes an objective lens. A transparent sphere houses the lens. The sphere is rotatably disposed in the distal end of the tube such that a portion of the sphere protrudes from the tube. A ring-shaped wiper is fixed to the distal end of the tube for circumferentially engaging the sphere. Means are disposed in the tube for rotating the sphere, wherein the wiper removes debris and fluids from the surface of the sphere as the sphere rotates.