Telescopes Quiz
Telescopes are used to magnify distant objects. They are a vital tool for astronomy. Over the last few hundred years, scientists and engineers have built bigger and better telescopes, revealing the mysteries of the Universe. But how much do you know about telescopes on Earth and beyond?
Timeline of Astronomy
Did you know that our understanding of science and space had gradually been built over thousands of years? Discover the people from the past whose observations and experiments helped us understand our Solar System and the
John Johnson
Credit: NASA
Occupation: Astrophysicist & Professor of Astronomy
Year born: 1977
Research Areas: Exoplanets
Kevin Govender
Credit: IAU/Kevin Govender
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Occupation: Director of Office of Astronomy for Development
Year born: c. 1981
Research Areas: Nuclear Physics, Astronomy, Sustainable Development
Allan Chapman
Early Life
Allan was born in Swinton, Lancashire in the north of England. As a child, he was always interested in tinkering and making things. He made his own telescope when he was 11 and used it to look at the Moon. He was from a working-class family and career options were limited. When he left school without qualifications, he was expected to start work in a local factory. Instead, Allan decided to get a job in a local library.
Year born: 1946
Research Areas: History of Science, History of Astronomy, Broadcasting