P7.5: The Astronomy Community

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  • Created by: Lili
  • Created on: 23-06-13 12:54
Where Are the Major Optical and Infrared Telescopes of Earth Located?
Chile, Hawaii, Australia, The Canary Islands
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Describe the Factors Astronomers Have to Consider When Choosing a Site for Observatory? 1
The atmosphere refracts light, and distorts images. = A high location (mountain) reduces the problem. Light is refracted more if the air is damp or polluted. = Locating a telescope in an area with dry, clean air results in higher quality images.
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Describe the Factors Astronomers Have to Consider When Choosing a Site for Observatory? 2
Astronomical observations cannot be made in cloudy conditions. = Choose an area with frequent cloudless nights. Cities cause light pollution = Choose an area far from cities.
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What Are Telescopes on Earth Affected By?
The Atmosphere - Which absorbs most infrared, ultraviolet, x-ray and gamma radiation. Atmospheric Refraction - Which distorts images and makes stars 'twinkle'. Light Pollution, Bad Weather. All these problems can be overcome by placing a telescope.
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What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Hubble Space Telescope?
A = It has a resolution better than the best Earth-based telescopes. D = High costs, of setting up and maintaining, and repairing the telescope in space.
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What is the Importance of International Collaboration When Concerning Large Observatories?
Collaboration between countries allows the cost of a major telescope to be shared and expertise pooled.
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Name Some Examples of International Collaboration. 1
The European Southern Observatory (ESO) is run by 14 european countries and Brazil. There are several telescopes in Chile. Chile provides the base and the office staff. Over 1000 astronomers from all over the world use the facility each year.
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Name Some Examples of International Collaboration. 2
The Gran Telesopio Canarias is in the Canary Islands, at the top of a high volcanic peak. It is funded mainly by Spain, with contributions from Mexico and the USA. Planning of the telescope involved more than 1000 people from 100 companies.
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Describe the Factors Astronomers Have to Consider When Choosing a Site for Observatory? 1

Back

The atmosphere refracts light, and distorts images. = A high location (mountain) reduces the problem. Light is refracted more if the air is damp or polluted. = Locating a telescope in an area with dry, clean air results in higher quality images.

Card 3

Front

Describe the Factors Astronomers Have to Consider When Choosing a Site for Observatory? 2

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

What Are Telescopes on Earth Affected By?

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Hubble Space Telescope?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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