Tools of Astronomy

Radiation Light is the common term for electromagnetic radiation The human eye can only see a limited range of all the various wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation Electromagnetic radiation includes not only visible light, but also infrared and ultraviolet radiation, radio waves, microwaves, X rays, and gamma rays

Telescopes Objects in space emit radiation in all portions of all the electromagnetic spectrum A benefit is that detectors can be attached that see wavelengths the human eye cannot see It also brings more light to focus than the human eye A third benefit is it allows astronomers to used specialized equipment

Refracting and Reflecting Telescopes Refracting telescopes were invented around the year 1600 In 1668 the reflecting telescope was invented and uses mirrors Both are used today, but most of these are reflecting telescopes

Radio Telescope

Interferometry

Spiral Galaxy New Planet Forming Stellar Nursery New Star