What is the primary function of a telescope in astronomy?

The primary function of a telescope in astronomy is to gather and magnify light from celestial objects, which allows astronomers to observe distant stars, planets, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena in greater detail. Telescopes are designed to collect more light than the human eye can, thereby enabling the observation of faint objects that would otherwise be invisible. The ability to magnify the light helps to resolve details, making it possible to study the structure and composition of celestial bodies.

The design of telescopes typically incorporates lenses or mirrors that focus light, creating clearer images than what can be perceived by the naked eye. This characteristic is essential for understanding the universe, as many celestial objects are located billions of light-years away, requiring powerful tools to analyze them effectively. This fundamental role distinguishes telescopes from instruments designed for other purposes, such as those that focus on sound or terrestrial observations.