Chemistry: This Day in Science History - August 25 - Herschell, Big Telescopes and Moon Creatures

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This Day in Science History - August 25 - Herschell, Big Telescopes and Moon Creatures Aug 24th 2011, 22:05 August 25th marks the passing of the English astronomer, Frederick William Herschel. He was one of the foremost English astronomers of the time. He constructed nearly 400 different telescopes, including the "Great Forty-Foot" reflecting telescope. It was the largest telescope in the world for 50 years. It had a 40 foot focal length and used a 48 inch mirror. Another August 25th event involved his son, John William Herschel. Beginning on August 25, 1835, six articles were published by the New York Sun newspaper describing John Herschel's observation of Moon creatures such as unicorns, bipedal beavers and bat-winged humanoids. The Great Moon Hoax was written by Richard A. Locke to increase circulation for the New York Sun. It wasn't exposed as a hoax for two weeks and no retraction was ever made. Herschel was initially amused by the stories, but grew tired of trying to explain to people he had nothing to do with it or denying the observations to people who believed the hoax. Find out what else occurred on this day in science history. Follow Chemistry on Facebook or Twitter.

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