The Influential Invention of the Telescope: Essay

The optical telescope, created by Hans Lippershey during the renaissance was one of the most influential inventions of history. For the first time, people were able to widen their senses, and observe into the heavens. Galileo Galilei, was the first to use this invention to observe celestial bodies. The telescope allowed Galileo to record his observations and learn more about the world beyond Earth. The telescope also transferred the authority of how to observe nature to an instrument instead of human hands.
This step forward in observation, if applied to today, would solve the problem facing current astronomers; not being able to see planets because of the existing light from nearby stars. Scientists are currently inventing better ways to see into deep space. One such invention is the external occulter, which is more commonly known as a starshade. This screen blocks the light of stars and creates a highly contrasted image so the the observer can only see the light reflected by rocky exoplanets. For many scientists this is a welcome innovation.  

          During the renaissance the telescope was the tool that furthered much understanding of space. The well known Galileo observed many new characteristics of heavenly bodies with this new instrument. The moon, he found to be different from what was inferred. It was thought to be a perfect object, smooth and spherical, but Galileo recorded it to be rough and covered in seas and valleys. He also deduced from his observations that Jupiter had orbiting moons. Galileo recorded four in all; Ganymede, Callisto, Io, and Europa. These were among many other discoveries Galileo found using the telescope. Starting in 1608, the telescope was available for general use, and would thus further studies of the unknown heavens. Currently, the instrument is being used to help observe other solar systems from our own. It has seen many changes as science and technology have advanced in the area, and has given people a great insight into the universe outside the Earth.

David, Leonard. "Innovative 'Starshade' Tech Could Illuminate Rocky Alien Planets." Space.com. N.p., 14 Nov. 2014. Web. 16 Nov. 2014. <http://www.space.com/27765-starshade-tech-alien-planet-search.html>.

"Galileo and the Telescope." Australia Telescope National Facility. CSIRO, n.d. Web. 16 Nov. 2014. <http://www.atnf.csiro.au/outreach/education/senior/astrophysics/galileo.html>.