Edward Troughton facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Edward Troughton FRS
Born	October 1753 Corney
Died	12 June 1835
Occupation	astronomical instrument maker
Awards	Copley Medal

Edward Troughton was a brilliant British instrument maker. He lived from 1753 to 1835. He was famous for creating amazing telescopes and other tools. These tools helped people study the stars and navigate the world. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).

Edward Troughton: A Master Instrument Maker

Early Life and Training

Edward Troughton was born in October 1753. His hometown was Corney, in Cumberland, England. He was the youngest of six children. His father, Francis Troughton, worked on a farm. Edward first learned about farm life and animals.

In 1773, Edward moved to London. There, he started an apprenticeship. This means he trained with his uncle, John Troughton. His older brother, also named John, trained there too. By 1779, Edward became a business partner with his uncle. Soon, he was known as the best maker of tools in Britain. These tools were used for navigation, surveying, and studying the stars. Their shop was at 136 Fleet Street in central London. It was called the "Sign of the Orrery".

Incredible Inventions

Edward Troughton didn't just build instruments. He also designed and invented new ones. In 1795, he made a special telescope. It was called the Troughton Equatorial telescope. This telescope went to the Armagh Observatory. It was a 2-inch refractor telescope. It was mounted in a way that helped track stars. This telescope was the first major instrument for the observatory. It is still around today!

In 1806, he created the Groombridge Transit Circle. This was another important instrument. Stephen Groombridge used it to make a detailed star catalogue. This catalogue listed many stars.

Awards and Recognition

Edward Troughton received many honors for his work. In 1809, he won the Copley Medal. This is a very important award from the Royal Society. In March 1810, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special group of top scientists. He also joined the American Philosophical Society in 1817. In 1822, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Later Life and Partnership

In 1826, Edward's brother John passed away. Edward's own health was not good. So, he took on a new partner. His partner was William Simms. Their company then became known as Troughton & Simms.

Edward Troughton was involved in a lawsuit once. A man named Sir James South was unhappy with a telescope mount Troughton made. Troughton sued to get paid for his work. With help from Richard Sheepshanks, Troughton won the case.

Edward Troughton was also color blind. He died in London on June 12, 1835. He was buried in Kensal Green Cemetery in south London. He never married and had no children.

Honours

Some places are named after Edward Troughton. Troughton Rocks in Antarctica are named after him. Troughton Road in London is also named in his honor. It is near where the Charlton Troughton & Simms instrument factory used to be.

See also

• List of astronomical instrument makers