Lord Rosses Great Telescope
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Lord Rosses Great Telescope
This is the 6-foot telescope (the Leviathan of Birr), at Birr Castle, Parsonstown, Ireland. This telescope was constructed in 1845 by the Irish astronomer William Parsons (1800-1867), the 3rd Earl of Rosse. Pioneering research carried out with this telescope includes the observation of the spiral structure of the M51 galaxy (1845). The telescope was the largest in the world during its lifetime, and was moved up and down between supporting walls and accessed by ladders. The 6-foot mirror and telescope was dismantled in 1908, and the support structures demolished in 1925. A replica was constructed in the 1990s, and the site is now a museum. Coloured engraving from The Heavens by Amedee Guillemin, Publ. Richard Bentley, 1878
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Media ID 6317233
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysics Galaxies History Of Science Ireland Observatory Reflector Spiral Galaxy Telescope Lord Rosse Rosses Whirlpool Galaxy William Parsons
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Lord Rosses Great Telescope, also known as the Leviathan of Birr, located at Birr Castle in Parsonstown, Ireland. Constructed in 1845 by the brilliant Irish astronomer William Parsons, the 3rd Earl of Rosse, this remarkable telescope played a pivotal role in pioneering astronomical research. One of its groundbreaking achievements was the observation of the spiral structure within the M51 galaxy back in 1845. Throughout its lifetime, this colossal telescope held the title for being the largest in the world. To access it, astronomers had to maneuver up and down ladders between supporting walls. Sadly, after more than six decades of service to scientific exploration and discovery, this extraordinary instrument was dismantled in 1908. The support structures were later demolished in 1925. However, a replica was meticulously constructed during the 1990s to preserve its historical significance. Today, visitors can explore this iconic site turned museum that stands as a testament to Lord Rosse's ingenuity and contribution to astrophysics. This colored engraving from Amedee Guillemin's book "The Heavens" published by Richard Bentley in 1878 beautifully captures both the grandeur and scientific importance of Lord Rosses Great Telescope. With its rich history entwined with astronomy and scientific progress, this image serves as a reminder of humanity's relentless pursuit to unraveling celestial mysteries through innovation and curiosity.
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