While there's no single definitive answer, Hans Lippershey is generally credited with inventing the telescope in 1608.

Here's why:

* Lippershey's Patent: He applied for a patent for his invention in the Netherlands, which was ultimately denied.

* Other Claims: However, there were others working on similar optical devices around the same time, including Zacharias Janssen and Jacob Metius.

* Galileo's Impact: While not the inventor, Galileo Galilei significantly improved the telescope and used it for astronomical observations, making groundbreaking discoveries.

So, while Lippershey is recognized for his patent application, it's important to acknowledge the contributions of others and Galileo's pivotal role in advancing telescope technology.