Introduction to Observation of Space

From ancient times, humans have been captivated by the sun, moon, and stars. Using imagination and observation, they identified patterns in the sky and noted how the positions of stars changed over time, linking them to seasonal changes. This knowledge was crucial for agriculture and navigation, especially for travellers at sea. Although early skywatchers lacked advanced tools, their curiosity drove them to explore the mysteries of the universe.

• Today, over 400 years after Galileo’s first telescope, significant advancements in telescope technology and space science have greatly expanded our understanding of the cosmos and contributed to modern conveniences.
• In 1608, Hans Lippershey, a spectacle maker, discovered that two lenses aligned one behind the other could magnify objects, leading to the creation of the first telescope.
• In 1609, Galileo improved the telescope and used it to observe space, revealing many more stars than were visible to the unaided eye.
• Galileo made significant discoveries, including the moons of Jupiter and sunspots, revolutionising our understanding of the universe.
• Modern telescopes, including those placed in space, are designed for specific purposes and provide enhanced observation capabilities, offering deeper insights into the universe.

Galileo Galilei