1.      In Richard Preston’s book First Light, the first section “Big Eye” introduces the life of an astronomer, and its adventurous discoveries at the work. The difficulties they have, and the tools they need to work with in order to do their job. The author first begins the novel with an anecdote about the Palomar Observatory and describes his experience with the Hale Telescope in order to astonish the reader and allow them to have a connection with the telescope like he does. He then provides facts about the Hale Telescope to demonstrate that this beautiful invention isn’t only beautiful to him, but is proven to be beautiful. To conclude he manipulates comparison to relate everyday topics with his experience to enable the reader to have a better understanding of the novel. His purpose is to demonstrate that the job of an astronomer can be related to any person who just wants to know about the universe. Preston seems to have an audience who is interested to the universe as he is.           

2.       Patting: to tap gently with an open hand or something flat

Wad: a small mask of soft material often folded or rolled used for stuffing

Quasars: a very energetic and distant active galactic nucleus                    

Soldering: a process in which two or more metal items are joined together by melting

Canister: a cheap “ganister”

Agile: characterized by quickness and ease of movement 

Filigreed: delicate and intricate ornamental work made from gold, silver or other wires       

Slit: a long narrow cut or opening  

Smears: to spread or apply

Kludge 

3.      Tone: straight to the point, passionate

4.      Anecdote: “The box was a rat’s nest of spare parts…”(8)

Personification: “to run his eyes over the telescope.”(11)

Telegraphic Sentence: “He hit a switch.”(15)

Paradox: “it was the largest on earth.” (37)

Simile: "An astronomer could groan more abnormally than a sick wino...."(4)

5.      What does he mean when he mentions Ellery Hale on page 37?

Does he intentionally use anecdotes a lot?

I wonder what will happen if the temperature isn’t right during their time?

6.      “Below a heaven not exactly empty, but a long way from earth.”(63)