Telescopes
Unit 3: Telescopes (weeks 7-9)
Major theme: Astronomy is an observational, not an experimental science.
Learning Objectives:
Outline the main functions of a telescope (light-gathering power, resolution, and magnifying power) and relate each to a telescope’s design.
Compare and contrast reflection and refracting telescopes; include a sketch of the optical layout of each in your comparison.
Compare a radio telescope to an optical telescope in terms of functions, design, and use.
Describe what is meant by the term invisible astronomy.
Contrast an infrared telescope to an optical telescope in terms of functions, design, and use.
Discuss at least two important advantages a space telescope in earth orbit has over a ground-based telescope.
Outline:
Physics of optics/light
Reflection
Refraction
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Spectroscopy
Optical telescope design
Refracting telescopes
Reflecting telescopes: Primary Focus, Newtonian, & Cassegrain
Properties, Function, and Limitations of Telescope
Light-gathering power
Resolving fine detail
Magnification
Interferometry
Chromatic & Spherical Aberration
Invisible Astronomy (the dawn of Multi-wavelength Astronomy)
Atmospheric distortion and light pollution
Radio astronomy
Infrared telescopes
X-Ray space-based observatories
Class Notes
Read Zeilik: Chapter 6
Useful websites:
Discovery Channel’s – Telescope (2016)
Online Astronomy: http://astronomyonline.org