What do astronomers do at an observatory?
Before using a research telescope, an astronomer submits a proposal detailing project goals and equipment needs for approval by a […]
How do modern telescopes work?
Telescopes gather light in one of two ways. Reflecting telescopes focus light with a series of mirrors, while refracting telescopes
Is Hubble Space Telescope the only telescope in space?
While Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is certainly the most famous observatory in space, it is by no means the only
Is Hubble Space Telescope the only telescope in space? Read More »
How do astronomers use space-based telescopes?
Procedures for operating satellite telescopes are somewhat different from traditional ground-based telescope observing runs. Telescopes orbiting in space are operated
Why are many observatories located on mountaintops?
Almost all of the world’s finest ground-based observatories are located on mountains, for a variety of reasons. First and foremost,
Why are many observatories located on mountaintops? Read More »
How do astronomers measure distances to stars and galaxies?
Astronomers have developed several techniques to indirectly measure the vast distances between Earth and the stars and galaxies. In many
How do astronomers measure distances to stars and galaxies? Read More »
Are there shortcuts through space?
According to Albert Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity, it is feasible in areas of intensely strong gravity to create “wormholes”
Who built the first observatory?
Observatories, like so much of astronomy, are truly ancient features of human culture; retracing the steps of the first person
How was the size of Earth first measured?
Earth’s circumference was first accurately measured more than 2,000 years ago by the Greek astronomer Eratosthenes, who at the time
What causes the Northern and Southern Lights?
The famous Northern and Southern Lights — Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis for those Latin lovers among us — are