Question

Which of the following is an advantage of space telescopes? A. They are cheaper to build. B. They have fewer technical problems. C. They obtain higher quality images. D. They can be repaired easily.

Short answer

Option C: Space telescopes obtain higher quality images.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

We need to identify which of the options listed provides an advantage of space telescopes over Earth-based telescopes.

Option Analysis: Cost (A)

Option A suggests that space telescopes are cheaper to build. In reality, space telescopes are generally more expensive due to the complex technology and the costs associated with launching them into space.

Option Analysis: Technical Problems (B)

Option B claims that space telescopes have fewer technical problems. Although they avoid some issues related to the Earth's atmosphere, space telescopes can still experience technical issues in space, which may be more challenging to address.

Option Analysis: Image Quality (C)

Option C states that space telescopes obtain higher quality images. This is true because they are above the Earth's atmosphere, offering clearer views without atmospheric distortion that affects image quality.

Option Analysis: Repair (D)

Option D implies that space telescopes can be repaired easily. This is incorrect because repairing space telescopes, like the Hubble Space Telescope, is a complex, costly, and rare operation.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, option C is the correct choice. Space telescopes provide better image quality because they operate outside Earth's atmospheric distortions.

Key concepts

Advantages of Space Telescopes

Space telescopes have revolutionized our understanding of the universe. One key advantage is their ability to capture clearer images compared to Earth-based telescopes. Since they are positioned beyond Earth's atmosphere, they avoid the light pollution and atmospheric interference that can distort observations.
With a direct line of sight to celestial objects, space telescopes can observe wavelengths that are otherwise absorbed by Earth's atmosphere.

• For instance, ultraviolet and x-ray astronomy is possible only from space, unlocking views of the cosmos that are invisible to ground-based observers.
• This allows scientists to study phenomena like black holes and the life cycle of stars in greater detail.

Also, **space telescopes provide continuous observation** capabilities, free from the limitations imposed by Earth's rotation.
Thus, they offer extended and uninterrupted views of astronomical events.

Atmospheric Distortion

Atmospheric distortion is a significant challenge for astronomers using Earth-based telescopes. As light from celestial bodies enters Earth's atmosphere, it bends and scatters due to varying air temperatures and densities. This disturbance is known as "seeing."
It can cause stars and planets to twinkle and can blur astronomical images.

• Effects of atmospheric distortion – Fluctuating refraction causes image smearing and limits detail resolution.
• Impacts on accuracy – Diminishes contrast and brightness of observed objects.

However, **space telescopes are immune** to such distortions.
They can observe the universe in its pure form, leading to much more precise and detailed data collection.

Image Quality

Image quality is paramount in astronomical observations. Space telescopes offer superior image quality due to their location outside the Earth's atmospheric effects. They can capture light from stars, galaxies, and planets without interference.

• Detail clarity – Space telescopes capture sharper and clearer images by avoiding "seeing" effects.
• Broad spectrum observation – These telescopes can observe electromagnetic spectra, such as infrared and ultraviolet, that are impeded by Earth's atmosphere.

This capability makes space telescopes ideal for expanding our understanding of the universe as they provide deeper insights into cosmic phenomena.

Earth-based Telescopes

Despite the advantages of space telescopes, Earth-based telescopes play a crucial role in astronomy. They are more accessible and can be built larger due to fewer logistical constraints.
While they do suffer from atmospheric distortion, technologies like adaptive optics help mitigate these effects.

• Cost-effective – Earth-based telescopes are less expensive to construct and maintain compared to launching a telescope into space.
• Greater size potential – They can be built larger, enabling capturing more light, which is vital for observing faint and distant objects.

Though affected by weather and day-night cycles, **Earth-based telescopes are versatile and essential** to the field of astronomy.
Collaborations between space and Earth-based telescopes enhance our ability to observe and understand the universe comprehensively.