There are many ways to view the universe beyond just visible light. Telescopes collect different wavelengths of light and energy, from optical to infrared, radio, ultraviolet, x-rays, and gamma rays. Each type of telescope reveals different information and allows us to study different phenomena in the universe. The best locations for telescopes are high mountain tops for optical and infrared telescopes, and satellites in orbit for telescopes studying wavelengths blocked by Earth's atmosphere like x-rays and gamma rays. Advanced telescopes have allowed scientists to discover more about star and galaxy formation, black holes, and the early universe.
2. Planets do not twinkle because they are closer and not a single point of light.
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5. Because stars produce different kinds of energy, we want to study all of them - not just visible light!! Our eyes receive only a very small part of that energy!
6. We only see the visible range. But stars give off energy in all the wavelengths!
7. Optical telescopes - Using light to discover information about the universe. There are two kinds:
16. Where should we put our telescopes? 1. Mountain tops above atmospheric haze. Reduces the twinkle effect and distortion. 2. Far from city lights ( light pollution). 3. If our atmosphere blocks the wavelength needed to study, then the scope goes into orbit!
22. Infrared scope in Hawaii Infrared scopes “look for” heat and are best at locating new stars just forming.
23. COBE - An Infrared scope that is in orbit. Cosmic Background Explorer It has located very important data about the formation of the universe. Infrared = heat
24. The constellation of Orion in visible light energy and infrared energy. These two views see very different things in the same area of the sky!
32. X-ray telescopes Records x ray emissions from objects in “deep” space Best for “looking” for black holes, dying stars, and other strange objects. Must be above the atmosphere!
35. Gamma Rays These telescopes are looking for high energy events: black holes, neutron stars and quasars. Due to their high energy content, Gamma rays are able to cause serious damage when absorbed by living cells. Gamma rays are also able to penetrate dense materials. Aren’t we glad our atmosphere blocks them!
36. The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory orbits the Earth, detecting high-energy photons – GAMMA RAYS