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30-inch telescope focus, Helwan, Egypt
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30-inch telescope focus, Helwan, Egypt
30-inch telescope focus. At right is the secondary mirror, used to reflect light from the larger primary mirror towards the camera (left) that contains photographic plates. This 30-inch telescope was erected at the Helwan Observatory, Cairo, Egypt. It was provided in 1905 by British astronomer John Henry Reynolds (1874-1949). The first large telescope erected in Africa and the Middle East, it began operations in January 1909, observing Halleys Comet that year. It was used to observe galaxies, providing data for modern galaxy classification. It was also used to observe comets, Jupiters eighth satellite, Pluto, and solar eclipses
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Media ID 9224397
© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s Africa African British Empire Cairo Camera Colonial Comets Device Egypt Egyptian Focus Galaxies Instrument Machinery Mechanism Middle East Pluto Reflecting Telescope Reflector Telescope Helwan
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This print showcases the 30-inch telescope focus at Helwan, Egypt. The image captures the intricate details of this historical astronomical instrument, highlighting its technological significance in Africa and the Middle East during the early 20th century. At the right side of the frame, we can observe the secondary mirror, strategically positioned to reflect light from the larger primary mirror towards a camera on the left. This camera contains photographic plates that were used to capture celestial wonders. Erected in 1905 by British astronomer John Henry Reynolds, this telescope marked a milestone as it was Africa and Middle East's first large telescope. The Helwan Observatory in Cairo became home to this remarkable piece of equipment which commenced operations in January 1909 with its inaugural observation being Halley's Comet that year. Throughout its active years, it played a crucial role in observing galaxies and providing valuable data for modern galaxy classification. Additionally, this powerful instrument allowed astronomers to study comets, Jupiter's eighth satellite, Pluto (before its reclassification), and even solar eclipses. Its presence not only contributed significantly to scientific advancements but also symbolized technological progress within colonial Egypt. This monochrome photograph beautifully captures both the intricate mechanisms of this reflecting telescope and its historical importance as part of Egypt's rich astronomical heritage at Khedivial Astronomical Observatory.
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