What was the primary tool listed for comet discovery in the Ancient/Pre-Telescope Era?
Answer
Naked Eye
The provided comparison chart delineates the technological progression in comet observation across different eras. For the Ancient/Pre-Telescope period, the sole instrument available for observing these celestial visitors was the unaided eye. Observations made during this time were purely visual, focusing on documenting the appearance and sketching its position relative to known constellations. This contrasts sharply with the later eras, which incorporated telescopes, mathematics, and eventually automated digital systems.
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