Galileo's telescope and the birth of instrumental optics: a review note.
Early steps tracing back to Galileo's telescope and to the birth of instrumental optics are reported. Particulars of lensmaking technology, basic optics laws, concepts of eye and vision, and issues on instrument trade and service are given. Achievements at the roots of our continuing advances in optical sciences are acknowledged.
Molesini
Giuseppe
G
Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica Applicata, Largo E. Fermi 6, 50125 Firenze, Italy. giuseppe.molesini@inoa.it