Tools of Space Exploration Indicator: 8E4B5

Tools of Space Exploration Astronomers use telescopes, satellites, space probes, and spectroscopes to make observations and collect data about objects inside the solar system and outside the solar system. These tools and the associated technology that allow astronomers to analyze and interpret the data help scientists learn about the solar system and about the universe.

Two types of Optical Telescopes Refracting telescopes use convex lenses to bend and focus light rays to produce images of objects in space. Reflecting telescopes (B) use mirrors to focus light rays to produce images of objects in space. A. B.

Radio Telescopes Radio telescopes receive radio waves emitted from objects in space, including waves from very distant stars and galaxies; These radio waves are used to produce images of the objects from sound waves. These telescopes can receive information in any weather and during day or night. Largest one is wider than 3 football fields!

Infrared Telescopes 1..can read infrared (heat) from stars but placed where Earth's atmosphere does not block or absorb the signals. 2. They help scientists to study objects that don't show up through an optical telescope. examples: black holes 3. Also, they help scientists to search for new knowledge

Infrared Telescope

X-Ray Telescopes 1 ...can read x-ray signals which carry powerful energy but they have to be placed where Earth's atmosphere does not block or absorb the signals. 2.They help scientists to study objects that don't show up through an optical telescope. examples: black holes 3. They help scientists to search for new knowledge.

X-Ray Telescopes

Gamma Telescopes 1...can read gamma signals which are the most powerful and deadly forms of radiation (have to be placed where Earth's atmosphere does not block or absorb the signals). 2. They help scientists to study objects that don't show up through an optical telescope. examples: black holes 3. They help scientists to search for new knowledge.

Gamma Telescope

Satellites... are placed in orbit around Earth with special instruments and telescopes that collect information from space which is sent back to Earth where it is interpreted.

Satellites in orbit around Earth

Space Observatories... are telescopes or other instruments that have been launched into outer space to collect data on distance planets, galaxies,and other celestial bodies. Example: Hubble Space Telescope Data gathered from satellites and space observatories are not hampered by Earth’s atmosphere.

Space Probes... contain instruments to collect data and travel out of Earth's orbit to explore places that would be too dangerous for astronomers; the instruments that a probe contains depends upon the space mission. Ex: Voyager One

Spectroscopes collect the light from distant stars and separate that light into bands of different colors; by studying these bands, astronomers identify the elements in a star.

Space Shuttles The Space Shuttle program lasted for 30 years. The Columbia launched April 12, 1981 and the Atlantis landed July 21, 2011.The Space Shuttle was the world's first reusable spacecraft, and the first spacecraft in history that could carry large satellites both to and from orbit. The Shuttle launched like a rocket, maneuverd in Earth orbit like a spacecraft and landed like an airplane. One mission could last 5-16 days.

Space Shuttle

International Space Station The purpose of the ISS is to have a permanent laboratory that will be used for long-term research projects.

Rocket Rocket engines harness the energy to get a spacecraft off the ground and into space.