Question

The first known telescopes, used around 1600, consisted of a lens and an eyepiece. Today, telescopes are often computer controlled and consist of a complicated array of sophisticated lenses.

Which statement correctly describes how telescopes have changed over time?
The telescopes of the 1600s were used until the year 2000, when a more sophisticated telescope was built.
The telescopes of the 1600s were gradually improved upon over time, resulting in the telescopes that are available today.
The telescopes of the 1600s were used until the year 1900, when a more sophisticated telescope was built that was used until the year 2000.
The telescopes of the 1600s were abandoned after about 50 years, and the technology was completely replaced.

Answer 1

The correct statement is:
- The telescopes of the 1600s were gradually improved upon over time, resulting in the telescopes that are available today.

Explanation: Telescope design has evolved continuously since ~1600 with incremental advances (better lenses, mirrors, mounting, optics, and now computer control), rather than a single abrupt replacement or fixed-use periods.