Final answer:
Dr. George R. Carruthers invented a spectrograph for moon use which captured the first UV images of Earth, revealing features like the hydrogen atmosphere and auroras. This invention, among others like Griffith's discovery of the 'transforming principle' and Koch's culture techniques, represents pivotal moments in the advancement of scientific knowledge and technology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The invention by Dr. George R. Carruthers that allowed researchers to examine celestial objects for the first time in a new light was a spectrograph designed for moon use. This particular device was capable of capturing UV images without the interference from the Earth's atmosphere. One of the most remarkable and historic images taken by this invention was of Earth itself, providing unprecedented data such as the full extent of the hydrogen atmosphere, the polar auroras, and the tropical airglow belt. Dr. Carruthers also played a pivotal role in training the astronauts on how to use this groundbreaking device.
Other significant scientific discoveries and inventions that have catalyzed advancements include the development of porcelain filters for the discovery of viruses, Frederick Griffith's experiment which unveiled the 'transforming principle' in bacteria leading to the understanding that DNA was this principle, and Robert Koch's pioneering techniques in pure culture which remain fundamental in microbiology and medicine.
Furthermore, inventions like the radioimmunoassay and Strickland and Mourou's invention of chirped pulse amplification, the technology behind chirped lasers used in vision correction surgeries, are also monumental in the advancement of science and its applications to health and technology.