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Question no. 37027

Which was the first planet identified through the aid of a telescope?

Select your answer for: Which was the first planet identified through the aid of a telescope?
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Answer: A. Uranus

Explanation

William Herschel discovered Uranus using a telescope in 1781, expanding the known solar system. Ancient astronomers could not see Uranus with the naked eye due to its faintness and distance. This historic discovery marked the first time a new planet was identified through telescopic observation. Uranus is an ice giant planet orbiting the Sun far beyond the orbit of Saturn. Telescopic technology advanced significantly during the eighteenth century, enabling astronomers to spot dim objects. Herschel initially suspected the new object might be a comet before confirming its planetary orbit.

The discovery of Uranus changed humanity understanding of the scale and structure of our solar system. Modern astronomers continue using advanced telescopes to discover distant objects orbiting far beyond Uranus. Historical milestones in astronomy highlight how technological tools drive major scientific breakthroughs. Option B names Jupiter, which is extremely bright and was easily known to ancient civilizations. Option C identifies Venus, a brilliant morning and evening star visible to the naked eye throughout history. Option D designates Mercury, which ancient observers tracked closely without the aid of optical instruments.

Category
Everyday Science
Topic
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