Advertisement



Galileo's Instruments of Discovery

With these various instruments, Galileo Galilei was able to look into space and change our view of the universe.


Galileo geometrical square

(Franklin Institute)


Geometrical Square

This square could be used either vertically, as shown, or horizontally to measure heights and distances through triangulation. It also had a magnetic compass to determine direction. This square is from the 16th century.

Article Tools

 
  • Font
    		•  Share/Save/Bookmark Share
     
  • Email
    		•
     
  • Print
    		•  Digg Digg
     
  • Comments
    		•  StumbleUpon StumbleUpon
     
  • RSS
    		•  Reddit Reddit
     
    Galileo telescope Galileo armillary sphere Galileo astronomical ring dial Galileo nocturnal and sundial Galileo nocturnal and horary disk Galileo astrolabe Galileo navicula dial Galileo geometric and military compass Galileo triangulation instrument Galileo graphometer Galileo geometrical square Galileo telescopic theodolite

    More from Smithsonian.com

    Galileo's Vision

    David Zax on “Galileo’s Vision”


     
    Comments

    compliments.. bulent sisman

    Posted by Bulent Sisman on August 12,2009 | 03:09AM

    Amateurs interested in astronomy are often told to star with a decent pair of binoculars which are usually about 7 to 10 powers of magnification. It's easy to see how Galileo was able to make his discoveries with a telescope of about the same power.

    Posted by Phoghat on August 18,2009 | 02:18AM

    Post a Comment


    Name: (required)

    Email: (required)

    Comment: