It is clear to everyone that astronomy at all events compels the soul to look upwards, and draws it from the things of this world to the other.

— Plato

International Year of Astronomy 2009 and the Telescope

Galileo wasnt the first to have or use a telescope, but the first to put it towards the heavens and make use of it for studies in astronomy

The attached power point file offers a great explanation of the evolution of the early use of the telescope.

Use this link to download the power point file  

 

http://tinyurl.com/67tkos

Enjoy