There has always been some sort of microscope and/or telescope in the game. I missed your the telescope used to fit perfectly on the patio and look like one you'd have in your house, still my Sims could go out to their patio and stargaze, maybe get abducted by aliens. Now I have to make sure the lot is big enough to put one in their yard that's way too easy to spot.
My random guess is that it was for the animations. If the item is huge it controls the area where it happens (or even eliminates the Sims animation in favor of a rotating telescope animation in the case of the backboard observatory).
My sims have the small telescope on their patio…I don’t remember if it’s base game or not though. It should be under knowledge or maybe outdoor activities…I usually search for it. Ooh one also came with Werewolves as well.
