Galileo's telescope. Artwork of Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) demonstrating his telescope, the first to be used for astronomical observations, to the Do
Galileo's telescope. Artwork of Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) demonstrating his telescope, the first to be used for astronomical observations, to the Doge (ruler) of Venice, Italy, in August 1609. Galileo (on the right of the telescope) heard of the first telescope or 'magic tube' invented by Lippershey in Holland in 1608 and built his own design in 1609. Using it he discovered a number of stars invisible to the naked eye, Jupiter's moons and mountains on the Moon. He published his results in Sidereus Nuncius (Starry Messenger, 1610). The Doge was more interested in its potential maritime and military uses. Scene set in St Mark's Square in Venice.
Size: 4085px × 2480px
Photo credit: © Science Photo Library / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: astronomical, astronomy, built, engraving, equipment, galileo, galileos, historical, history, instrument, telescope, telescopes, venice
