The fascination with outer space can be an endless source of curiosity. You can explore our solar system and our stars, and even galaxies and other wonders of the universe. Whether you are an amateur astronomer or a professional, there’s an activity out there for you. Here’s a brief primer on how observational astronomy works.
Observational astronomy
Observational astronomy is the study of the sky. The Hubble Space Telescope, one of the most advanced observatories in the world, allows scientists to study sources in spectral regions absorbed by Earth’s atmosphere. They can image at the diffraction limit. Observational astronomy is a specialized field with many facets, from space exploration to the study of the universe.
Today, observational astronomy has advanced to a point where astronomers no longer need to be stargazers to conduct research. They can request observations remotely and download the images and data the next day. Thanks to space telescopes, astronomers are now able to study the skies without spending months stargazing. In addition to astronomical observations, the study of space phenomena has made it possible to understand the inner workings of the universe.
The branches of astronomy
The two main branches of astronomy involve observational astronomy and theoretical astrophysics. Observational astronomy is concerned with gathering data about celestial objects, using instruments with optical components. The visible light astronomy branch focuses on objects observable to the human eye (wavelengths 400 – 700 nm). Similarly, theoretical astronomy uses high-energy electromagnetic waves and x-rays to investigate the universe.
Since the 1960s, observational astronomy has evolved tremendously. New telescopes in the ground, and space, were launched. Observational astronomy was transformed when astronomers were able to see cosmic rays and the entire electromagnetic spectrum. High-resolution images were also obtained through interferometer arrays, which enabled scientists to capture images at optical and radio wavelengths. In addition, new space instruments are being developed to observe planets around other stars.
In February 2019, a new dwarf planet was discovered. Named FarFarOut, the new dwarf planet was found very quickly after the previous one. The object was discovered at an astronomical distance of about 120 astronomical units (AU) or 140 AU. Its orbit is approximately 1,000 Earth years across. If this discovery is true, the new dwarf planet would be orbiting the sun in a thousand Earth years.
Observational astronomers
The work of observational astronomers involves travel to various observatories around the world. Some observatories are located in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Europe, Australia, Chile, and even the South Pole. Observational astronomers read lots of publications, including The Astrophysical Journal, to learn about new subjects. They also stay abreast of major developments in astronomy and space. Many astronomers begin their workdays by checking for new articles about astronomy in the online open access archive arXiv.
Observational astronomy is a subset of astronomy. It focuses on collecting data about celestial objects. Observational astronomers observe and document celestial objects with the use of telescopes and other astronomical instruments. However, a theoretical astronomer uses computer models and other methods to understand the universe. The field of astronomy is a diverse one, with various branches focusing on different subjects.
The exciting spectrograph
The spectrograph is one of the most vital instruments used by observational astronomers. The spectrograph allows astronomers to determine the specific properties of distant celestial bodies using the wavelengths that the elements absorb. It has helped astronomers to discover helium, which has been found in the Sun’s emission spectrum. These instruments are also used to measure the radial motion of objects and their distances to Earth.
Until the 1960s, most astronomical observations were carried out using ground-based observatories. These telescopes were usually constructed at high altitudes to minimize atmospheric distortion. In the 1980s, telescopes of the 4-m class were built in both hemispheres. They were equipped with effective detectors and enabled observational astronomy to grow exponentially. They were the first telescopes to reach the moon!