Who was the mother of the first underwater telescope? Sarah Mather was an American inventor best recognized for patenting the first underwater telescope. She was born in 1796 in Brooklyn, New York, United States. Please continue reading to uncover more about Sarah Mather, including her wiki, bio, age, career, inventions, etc.
Biography (Early Life and Education)
Sarah Mather was welcomed into the world under the name Sarah Porter Stiman in 1796 in Brooklyn, New York, United States. Sarah is of American nationality and white ancestry.
Her zodiac sign is a mystery since her date and month of birth are unknown. We don’t have much information about her parents, education, or what her childhood was like.
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Quick Wiki/Bio
Name | Sarah Porter Stiman |
Nickname | Sarah Mather |
Gender | Female |
Date of Birth | 1796 |
Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, United States |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | White |
Zodiac sign | Unknown |
High School | Unknown |
University | Unknown |
Credentials | Unknown |

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Career
Invention of the submarine telescope
Sarah Mather received a patent from the government for an invention on April 16, 1845. The “Submarine Telescope and Lamp” innovation and subsequent advancements provided an adjustable way to look underwater. Mather simplified her patenting process by creating precise drawings that succinctly captured her creation.
The telescope’s light permitted visibility underwater for up to 500 feet and as deep as 250 feet, which increased underwater visibility. The idea was developed to address the lack of underwater clarity for various reasons. This applied to vessel damage, animal exploration, general environmental assessment, and construction and demolition operations.
However, the fundamental issue that was resolved was the necessity of removing the ship from the water to inspect damages. The framework of the telescope was changeable, having waterproof joints to better analyze what was required. A reflector globe was attached to the telescope’s bulb to increase visibility.
Furthermore, the telescope contained air circulation technology, which kept the tube from collapsing at various pressures. Mather devised a novel solution that advanced the entire naval industry.

Net Worth
How wealthy was Sarah Mather? Sarah Mather was known for inventing the underwater telescope, but her net worth is unknown. According to sources, she earned a lot of money from her career.
Net Worth | Unknown |
Salary | Unknown |
Profession | Inventor |
Personal Life and Death
Was Sarah Mather married or single? Sarah Mather was married to Harlow Mather at age 23 in 1819. We don’t have much information about her personal life. Sarah passed away on June 21, 1868, at age 72.
Husband | Harlow Mather |
Children | N/A |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | N/A |

Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Sarah Mather born?
Sarah was born in Brooklyn, New York, in the United States.
What is Sarah Mather’s zodiac sign?
Her zodiac sign is unknown.
What is Sarah Mather known for?
She is best known for patenting the first underwater telescope.
At what age did Sarah Mather die?
Sarah died at age 72.
Conclusion
Sarah lived more than 200 years ago, but thanks to her invention, scientists today continue to explore the ocean with telescopes. Her personal life is unknown, yet her innovation has influenced history and its creations and will most likely continue to inspire in the future.