R.N. Wilson's two-volume treatise has become a classic in its own right. Addressing the professional in research and industry as well as students and amateur astronomers, this first volume, Basic Design Theory and its Historical Development, treats the theory of reflecting telescope optics and systematically recounts the historical progress. The book is richly illustrated including spot-diagrams analysing special systems in modern form. In this second edition, the historical section has been revised, improvements have been made, and new technologies added. The concluding part II treats Manufacture, Testing, Alignment, Modern Techniques. From the reviews "... an unequalled reference for those who have interest in the field ... a unique reference in a superb presentation." ESO Messenger