Spectroscope

The 19th century saw a rapid growth in knowledge of the properties of light. Spectroscopic analysis split light into its various wavelengths to enable chemical analysis, for example of the spectra of distant stars and galaxies. This single prism spectroscope, used to analyse the light from stars and other heavenly bodies, has a simple equatorial mount adaptor for a 5-inch telescope. It is engraved 'Royal Society 1867'.