The Collegium Maius collection was enriched with an 18th century astronomical instrument, which is unique on a global scale. The telescope was constructed in a famous workshop of George Adams in London, the constructor of scientific instruments for King George III.

"It was bought in an antique shop in Edinburgh and is one of the three preserved 18th century instruments made by Adams. The remaining two are in Museo Della Specola in Bologna and in Harvard University in Boston as part of the collection of historical scientific instruments", says Krzysztof Stopka, the director of the JU Museum.

Telescopes made by George Adams enabled astronomers to study the position of celestial bodies, set the time, as well as measure latitude and longitude. The telescope from the Collegium Maius was acquired PZU Foundation.

"The acquisition of this exhibit has been our latest contribution to the development of Polish museums. As the largest insurance company we have been supporting centres for culture and science, including the National Museum in Kraków, the Sukiennice Museum, Royal Castle in Warsaw or the Royal Łazienki Museum in Warsaw," says Michał Witkowski, PZU spokesperson.  

The Adams telescope will be showcased for the first time on 23 March.