Ok I am new to this site and I am intrigued with both sides of the argument. I am pretty open-minded until I get all the facts. I have one question that came to mind while reading some other threads.

My question is: If one were to aim a powerful telescope directly at the horizon to see the end of the earth, why would he not be able to do so? Also related to this is, why are ships on the ocean unable to see each other past a certain point (i.e. when land is invisible even by telescopes until reaching close enough proximity)?



Thanks!