An optical instrument, which serves for discovering and viewing distant objects, either directly by glasses, or by reflection. The invention of the telescope is one of the noblest and most useful of which modern ages can boast, since by means of this instrument the wonderful motions of the planets and fixed stars, and all the heavenly bodies, are revealed to us. The honor of the invention is much disputed; it is certain, however, that the celebrated Galileo was the first who improved the telescope so as to answer astronomical purposes. The name is formed from two Greek words, one signifying far, the other to observe.
Optical, relating to Optics, the science of vision.
Astronomical, relating to Astronomy.
Who was Galileo?
A most eminent astronomer and mathematician, born at Florence, in Italy. His inventions and discoveries in Astronomy, Geometry, and Mechanics, contributed much to the advancement of those sciences. He died in 1642.
Astronomer, one versed in Astronomy.
Mathematician, one versed in Mathematics; a science which treats of magnitude and number.
What is Astronomy?[12]
That science which teaches the knowledge of the heavenly bodies, with the nature and causes of their various phenomena.