Spyglass telescope

This Galilean telescope is of the sort used as an opera glass, rather than as a telescope for scientific enquiry. This accounts for the decoration on the barrel.

The telescope has six draw tubes allowing it to be folded up very small so that it can fit into the pocket. Its red leather case also survives. Optically, the telescope is very simple, having only single objective and eyepiece lenses, again helping to keep it compact.

Object Details

ID: NAV1529
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Spyglass telescope
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Unknown
Date made: 1821
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Caird Collection
Measurements: Length: 32 mm (closed), 95 mm (open); Diameter: 46 (max.); Case: 40 x 54 mm
Parts: Spyglass telescope