A telescope is an optical instrument that aids in the observation of remote objects by collecting electromagnetic radiation (such as visible light). The first known practical telescopes were invented in the Netherlands at the beginning of the 1600s, by using glass lenses. They found use in both terrestrial applications and astronomy.

Dad and three sons on a clear night looking thru a telescope Check out this light box with other Astronaut/Space Images by Nashville Photographer, Dieter Spears, Owner of Inhaus Creative. [url=http://www.istockphoto.com/search/lightbox/2459726#898cb29][img]http://dieterspears.com/istock/links/button_space.jpg[/img][/url]