Lateral rectus muscle

The lateral rectus muscle (rectus lateralis) is a muscle of the eye that contracts to turn the eye outward, away from the center of the body.

Origin
The lateral rectus originates from the back of the eye socket, at the lateral side of the annulus of Zinn.

Insertion
The lateral rectus inserts at the side of the eye, on the lateral sclera just passed the equator of the eye.

Innervation
The lateral rectus is innervated by the abducent nerve (CN VI).