Gregorian reflecting telescope, 1748-1788

Gregorian telescope with 3-inch speculum mirror, tube stopper and 2 eyepieces by Thomas Short, London in case.

Dated to 1747--68, this reflecting telescope uses the Gregorian optical configuration. First proposed by James Gregory in 1663 it produces upright images. This is a convenience for a telescope that was as likely to be used for terrestrial viewing as for looking for objects in the sky. Made by the London instrument maker, Thomas Short the telescope has a brass tube. The claw-foot tripod stand allows the telescope to be used on a table, while focussing is achieved by moving the tiny mirror at the top of the tube. To aid the finding of objects being observed the telescope is provided with naked-eye viewing sights.