
refractor
A refractor, or telescope refractor, is an optical instrument that uses lenses to gather and bend light, allowing you to see distant objects more clearly. The main lens at the front (the objective) captures light from the object and bends it so that it focuses into an image inside the telescope. This setup makes distant objects, like planets or stars, appear larger and more detailed. Refractors are valued for their sharp, high-contrast images and durability, making them popular for astronomy and terrestrial viewing.