Skynet University: http://skynet.unc.edu/introastro
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Astronomy 101: The Solar System
Lesson 4: Telescopes
Theme: Introduction to radio astronomy

Next: Space Telescopes (http://youtu.be/oUFTlt7LJB0)
Previous: Radio Interferometers (http://youtu.be/7gja8u8kDi4)

In Lesson 4, we explore the technologies that astronomers have developed and continue to develop to detect light in the universe, both in visible and invisible wavelengths. At visible and near-visible wavelengths , we compare and contrast refracting and reflecting telescope designs, as well as detectors, including spectrographs. We explore why astronomers are building increasingly larger telescopes, and we consider both the limitations design and atmospheric limitations. We explore technologies developed to overcome atmospheric limitations – to make stars twinkle. We also explore how light is detected at radio wavelengths, which can be done from the ground, and at other wavelengths, which requires observation from space. We learn that it is very interesting to observe the same object at several wavelengths.

YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/introastro
Lesson playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLy034wwN98YIcO0H7fiOzM0rlvtV7gpHj

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