Observing with Telescopes & Space Telescopes

Question 1

List 6 advantages of using telescopes that are computer controlled over manual ones

Answer 1

1. You can program them to track objects
2. They can scan large areas easily
3. They are positioned more precisely
4. They can be operated remotely via the intenet
5. They can record and process data
6. Computers can control space telescopes

Question 2

How does our atmosphere effect readings from space? List 3 ways

Answer 2

1. It only lets certain wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation through
2. Light gets refracted by water in the atmosphere which blurs the image
3. Light can be absorbed by dust particles in the air

Question 3

List 2 ways that astronomers try to avoid these issues

Answer 3

1. They choose the area for astronomical observations very carefully
2. They use space telescopes

Question 4

List 2 reasons why Optical observatories are put in remote places

Answer 4

1. To avoid man made light pollution

2. To avoid dust and other particles in the air

Question 5

What are Optical observatories positioned on high ground?

Answer 5

Because astronomers want as little atmosphere between the observatory and the telescope as possible in order to minimise distortion and a blurred image

Question 6

What other 4 factors need to be considered when building an observatory?

Answer 6

1. Cost
2. Access
3. Environment
4. Social