In what year were the first functional telescopes introduced, and by whom?

The introduction of the first functional telescopes is attributed to Hans Lippershey in 1608. Lippershey, a Dutch spectacle maker, is often recognized for creating one of the earliest versions of the telescope, which utilized convex lenses to magnify distant objects. His invention allowed for significant advancements in observational astronomy, laying the groundwork for future developments by astronomers such as Galileo Galilei, who improved upon the design and made groundbreaking astronomical observations.

This context emphasizes the importance of Lippershey's contribution to the field of astronomy, as his invention marked a pivotal moment in scientific exploration and understanding of the universe. The timeline and attribution of the invention are crucial for understanding the historical progress in optical science and how it has influenced modern astronomy.