Can a Telescope See Itself from 100km Above Earth?

In summary, the question posed is whether a telescope orbiting Earth at 100km could see itself through a mirror on the ground. The answer is yes, as long as the mirror is in good condition and pointed in the right direction. The atmosphere may cause some slight distortions, but overall it is possible to see oneself through the telescope.
  • #1
Yoav
1
0
I highly theoretical question, hope you guys can help.

Say I have a telescope orbiting Earth at 100km, and say on the ground I have a mirror (of about 2x2m).
Could the telescope see itself through the mirror (i.e look down to earth, zoom in plenty and see itself looking down).


Thanks for any help !
 
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  • #2
Why not. If your mirror is without to much defaults, and pointing in the right direction. Looking through your telescope (powerful enough), you could see yourself standing behing your telescope, or better, you could give yourself an eye scan.

Cheers
 
  • #3
Yes, as fatra2 has said, why not! apart from the fluctuations of the atmosphere (which basically don't affect visible light), you'll see everything you want through that mirror!

Unless you have some good reason that disturbs this idea in your mind, and would be nice if you tell us what it is :)

Good luck :)
 

1. Can a telescope actually see itself from 100km above Earth?

Yes, a telescope is capable of seeing itself from 100km above Earth. However, this depends on the type and design of the telescope. Some telescopes have mirrors or reflective surfaces that can reflect light back towards itself, allowing it to see its own reflection.

2. How is it possible for a telescope to see itself from such a great distance?

A telescope is equipped with highly sensitive cameras or sensors that are designed to capture images of distant objects. These cameras or sensors are able to capture the reflection of the telescope's own light, allowing it to see itself from 100km above Earth.

3. Is it common for telescopes to have the ability to see themselves?

Yes, it is common for telescopes to have the ability to see themselves. This is especially true for space telescopes, which often need to perform self-checks and maintenance to ensure their functionality while in orbit.

4. Are there any limitations to a telescope's ability to see itself from 100km above Earth?

Yes, there are some limitations to a telescope's ability to see itself from 100km above Earth. Factors such as atmospheric conditions, brightness of the object, and the telescope's own design can affect its ability to see itself.

5. What are the practical applications of a telescope being able to see itself from a great distance?

The ability for a telescope to see itself from 100km above Earth has practical applications in space exploration and astronomy. It allows for self-monitoring and maintenance, which is crucial for the longevity and accuracy of the telescope's observations. It also allows for troubleshooting and diagnosing any potential issues that may arise while in operation.

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