Is a Radio Telescope Less Sensitive on the Galactic Plane?

In summary, radio telescopes are less sensitive on the galactic plane due to the effects of noise and the size of radio waves compared to optical wavelengths. This can make it more difficult to filter out desired signals from unwanted noise sources, similar to trying to have a conversation in a noisy environment. Additionally, the larger size of radio telescope dishes compared to optical mirrors can also affect sensitivity.
  • #1
Sanjay87
20
0
Is a radio telescope less sensitive on the galactic plane? If so, why?

/San
 
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  • #2
A radio telescope is no different than an optical telescope aside from the frequency band observable.
 
  • #3
So in that case, the answer mist be "yes". But why is it less sensitive? I am a newbie, so my question might sound a little strange.

Thanks,
San
 
  • #4
Sanjay87 said:
So in that case, the answer mist be "yes". But why is it less sensitive? I am a newbie, so my question might sound a little strange.

Thanks,
San
Mostly wavelength. You have less resolution with longer wavelengths. Radio waves are huge compared to optical wavelengths.
 
  • #5
Hi

Many things affect the sensitivity of radio receivers, either radio telescope, RADAR or just plain old radio. The biggest culprit is usually noise as this can have a very large impact on what you are trying to receive. It does follow that if you are looking into a field where there are lots of noise sources its going to be harder to define and filter out only the part you are interested in, and in some cases more sensitive receivers are even more adversely affected simply because they pick up too much junk along with the desired signal.

I guess if you are on the plane, looking towards the centre, then you have the most potential for undesired noise sources, a bit like trying to have a conversation in a loud night club, you can still do it, its just a lot harder than trying to have a conversation in a quiet room for example.

Hope this helps.

Utwig
 
  • #6
Optical mirror are figure to fractions of a wavelength [nanometers]. Radio telescope dishes are figured to about a quarter inch.
 

What is radio telescope sensitivity?

Radio telescope sensitivity refers to the ability of a radio telescope to detect and measure faint radio signals from space.

How is radio telescope sensitivity measured?

Radio telescope sensitivity is typically measured in units of Jansky (Jy), which represents the amount of energy received from a source per unit of time and area. A higher sensitivity means that the telescope is able to detect fainter signals.

What factors affect radio telescope sensitivity?

There are several factors that can affect the sensitivity of a radio telescope, including its size, design, and location. Larger telescopes generally have higher sensitivity, as they are able to collect more radio waves. The design of the telescope, such as the type of antenna used, can also impact sensitivity. Additionally, the location of the telescope can affect its sensitivity due to factors such as interference from other sources or atmospheric conditions.

Why is radio telescope sensitivity important?

Radio telescope sensitivity is important because it allows us to detect and study faint signals from distant objects in space. This can provide valuable insights into the universe, including the formation and evolution of galaxies, the properties of stars and planets, and the presence of potential extraterrestrial life.

How can radio telescope sensitivity be improved?

There are several ways in which radio telescope sensitivity can be improved. One way is to increase the size of the telescope, which allows it to collect more radio waves. Another way is to use advanced technology, such as more sensitive receivers or advanced signal processing techniques. Additionally, placing the telescope in a remote and radio-quiet location can also improve sensitivity by reducing interference from other sources.

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