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Newtons own drawing of his reflecting telescope
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Newtons own drawing of his reflecting telescope
Newtons telescope. Sir Isaac Newtons own drawing of his first reflecting telescope design. Newton invented the reflecting telescope in 1668. It worked by focusing light using a parabolic mirror (V). This reflected light back up the tube of the telescope to another mirror (D) which reflected it into the eyepiece (F). The design avoided the chromatic aberration and loss of light caused by the use of lenses and was highly successful; the largest modern telescopes are all of the reflect- ing variety. This first telescope was only 15 cm long and 2.5 cm in diameter but could magnify 30- 40 times. He built a second, larger version in 1671. Image taken from a 1672 letter by Newton
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Sir Isaac Newton's own drawing of his groundbreaking invention, the reflecting telescope. Created in 1668, this revolutionary design utilized a parabolic mirror (V) to focus light, which was then reflected back up the tube of the telescope to another mirror (D). This second mirror directed the light into the eyepiece (F), allowing for clear and precise observations. By avoiding the use of lenses, Newton's reflecting telescope eliminated chromatic aberration and minimized light loss. Its success marked a turning point in astronomical equipment design, with modern telescopes predominantly following this reflective principle. Despite its modest size - measuring only 15 cm long and 2.5 cm in diameter - this first iteration could magnify objects an impressive 30-40 times. Newton's ingenuity did not stop there; he went on to build a larger version of his reflecting telescope in 1671. The image captured here is taken from a letter penned by Newton himself in 1672, showcasing both his scientific prowess and meticulous attention to detail. As we marvel at this historical instrument through Science Photo Library's lens, we are reminded of how one man's innovation forever transformed our understanding of the cosmos. This photograph serves as a testament to Newton's enduring legacy as one of history’s greatest scientists and inventors.
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