How do I build a telescope at home?
In its essence, a telescope is an instrument that makes a far away object look closer. To do this, a telescope has a device that collects light from a distant object (objective lens or primary mirror) and brings that light (image) to a focus where a second device (eyepiece lens) magnifies the image and brings it to your eye. To make a simple telescope at home, you will need the following: • two magnifying glasses – perhaps 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5-3 cm) diameter (it works best if one is larger than the other) • a cardboard tube – paper towel roll or gift-wrapping paper roll (it helps if it is long) • duct tape • scissors • a ruler, yard stick, or tape measure • sheet of printed paper – newspaper or magazine will do To assemble your telescope, do the following: • Get the two magnifying glasses and a sheet of printed paper. • Hold one magnifying glass (the bigger one) between you and the paper. The image of the print will look blurry. • Place the second magnifying glass between your eye and t
