1. (sometimes capital) new, recent, or a new or modern form or development: neoclassicism; neocolonialism. 2. (Geological Science) (usually capital) the most recent subdivision of a geological period: Neogene. [from Greek neos new]. Also, esp. before a vowel, ne-.
Although optical telescopes are the type most commonly used for stargazing and amateur astronomy, lots of astronomical research is done on telescopes that look at other wavelengths of light. Each of these wavelength ranges shows us something unique about the universe and allows us to view events and objects that can't be seen with human eyes.
Isaac Newton invented the reflecting telescope (also called the Newtonian telescope), which makes use of mirrors in order to reflect and enhance light onto a particular surface. Whenever you see images of planets, moons, or solar systems you can thank Isaac Newton for the work he did in making this happen.