SKU 93233
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#1 Galilean Hand Telescope
The brilliant 17th century scientist Galileo Gallei designed this telescope
and first recorded using it in 1609. In addition to his many experiments with gravity
and various machines, Galileo wanted to determine if the Earth revolved around
the Sun, or the Sun revolved around the Earth. The answer to this question was not
known in his day. His predecessor, Copernicus, had made mathematical
observations to show that the solar system is “heliocentric”, with the Sun at the
center. But he could not
prove it. Others claimed
that the solar system is
“terracentric” with the
Earth at the center. While
not accepted at the time,
Galileo was the first
Western scientist to prove
through observation with a
telescope like this one
that the solar system is
heliocentric.
This sort of telescope has the advantage of allowing in a lot of light, so it
can be used in dark conditions. Its disadvantage is that its field of view and
magnification are very small.
To assemble a Galilean Hand Telescope:
1.
Place the Body (01) on a clean, flat work surface.
2.
Fit the Objective Lens (08) into the opening near the decorative covering of the
Body (01). Be sure the flat part of the Objective Lens is facing out.
3.
Press the Objective Lens (08) into the Body (01) using the Rod (16) until the
mark on the Rod aligns with the outer edge of the Body.
4.
Remove the Rod and set it aside. Insert the Diversion Lens Eyepiece (06) into
the other end of the Body (01).
5.
To focus this telescope, move the Eyepiece (06) slowly in and out.
6.
If it is not possible to focus the telescope on a remote object, the Objective
Lens (08) may be in the wrong position, or may not be straight in the Body
(01). Disassemble the telescope, and reassemble correctly following the
above directions.
Galilean Hand Telescope
distance “d”
distance “D”
