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Interferometry

The technique of diagnosing the properties of two or more waves by studying the pattern of interference, which is the superposition of two or more waves that results in a new wave pattern. Astronomers use this technique to combine the signals from two or more telescopes to produce images that are much sharper than those obtained by a single telescope. The technique is most often applied to radio astronomy, in which up to 30 or more radio dishes are combined into a single array. Optical interferometers, which are more difficult to align and operate, are also becoming more common.

Radio Programs

Zeta Hydrae Measuring the size of a star February 24, 2019

Event Horizon Telescope Looking for a giant black hole April 4, 2017

Interferometry V Looking at giant black holes February 12, 2016

Interferometry IV A whole passel of telescopes February 11, 2016

Interferometry III Adding up the telescopes February 10, 2016

Interferometry II Sharpening the view of the stars February 9, 2016

Interferometry Taking the measure of a giant February 8, 2016

Sheratan The hidden nature of a binary star October 24, 2015

Featured Images

Artist's concept of completed Magdalena Ridge Observatory Interferometer

Running Interference February 11, 2016