What fundamental optical principle allowed Galileo's instrument to function?
Answer
Light refraction through lenses.
The telescope relied on the principle of light refraction, which occurs when light passes through lenses, making distant objects appear closer and brighter.

Frequently Asked Questions
What was Galileo's primary role concerning the telescope?What fundamental optical principle allowed Galileo's instrument to function?What specialized artisanal skill was crucial to the quality of Galileo's observations?What lens arrangement did Galileo find superior for stargazing compared to terrestrial viewing setups?Approximately what maximum magnification did Galileo's best astronomical instruments achieve?What key feature of the Moon did Galileo discover that refuted established philosophy?What discovery involving Jupiter provided direct observable proof against the geocentric model?What evidence regarding Venus supported the heliocentric view?According to the text, what was Galileo's telescope primarily considered, as opposed to modern instruments?What foundational system of the universe did Galileo's empirical observations ultimately help substantiate?