Observatory Philippus Lansbergen
Description
Did you know that the telescope saw the light of day in Middelburg some 400 years ago? The telescope has had a great influence on the development of science and people's world view since the 17th century.
In 1608, a patent was applied for by Johannes (Hans) Lipperhey, who lived in Middelburg, Zeeland, for a "seecker instrument to see far away". Lipperhey demonstrated his invention for Prince Maurits in The Hague. Despite the great interest in his invention, he was not granted a patent because the instrument would already be known to others. Another Middelburger, Sacharias Jansen, and Jacob Metius from Alkmaar also laid claim to the invention. So the principle of the 'Dutch viewer' was too easy to reproduce for a patent to be granted. This became apparent just a year later, because in 1609 Galileo Galilei was the first to point his self-built telescope at the night sky. The rest is history.
On 15 December, we would like to invite you to visit the people's observatory Philippus Lansbergen in Middelburg. This is the second-oldest public observatory in the Netherlands which runs entirely on volunteers.
Besides a lecture on the origins of our solar system, stars and other galaxies, you will also see and hear about telescopes from the past, present and future.
If the weather is clear that evening, we will also observe for a while ourselves.
During our visit on 15 December, the astrologer's tool, the telescope, will also be discussed. However, if you want extensive information about telescopes and the latest developments in this field, we advise you to also visit the symposium with international speakers: "The Telescope, Past, Present and Future" on 4 October in Middelburg (cost only €30).
More information can be found at www.inventionofthetelescoop.eu (follow the link below).
Location
Observatory Philippus Lansbergen
Middelburg
Organiser
Zeeland region
Name and contact details for information
Further information from ing. V.A.O. Calon at the e-mail address below.