Finding the angular resolution of a telescope

In summary, an optical telescope with a diameter of 1.5m and placed at a site with 'seeing' of 1.0'' is expected to have a resolution of 0.167 arcseconds when observing at 1000nm. This is calculated using the equation Theta = 1.22 * (wavelength / D), where D is the diameter of the aperture, and taking into consideration the effects of both the telescope and seeing.
  • #1
Kieran12
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Homework Statement



An optical telescope has a diameter of 1.5m. It is placed at a site with 'seeing' of 1.0''. What is the expected resolution in arcseconds from observations made with the telescope at 1000nm? Give your answer to one decimal place

Homework Equations



Theta (rads) = 1.22 * (wavelength/diametre of aperture)

Rads * 180/pi = degrees

1 degree = 1*60*60 arcseconds

The Attempt at a Solution



So far, I have used the equation:

Theta = 1.22 * (wavelength / D) (where D = diametre of aperture).

Thus using this equation I have worked out that: 1.22 * (1000 * 10-9 / 1.5) = 813.33 * 10-9 rads = 0.167 arcseconds.

Where does seeing come into all this?? Its driving me mad!
 
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  • #2
Do you know how seeing is defined?

Both seeing and the telescope resolution will influence the angular resolution, unless one is negligible it is probably reasonable to combine their effects.
 

What is the angular resolution of a telescope?

The angular resolution of a telescope is the smallest angle between two objects that can be distinguished by the telescope. It is also known as the resolving power of the telescope.

How is the angular resolution of a telescope measured?

The angular resolution of a telescope is measured in units of arcseconds ("). This is the angle that corresponds to 1/3600th of a degree. It is typically calculated by dividing the wavelength of light by the diameter of the telescope's aperture.

What factors affect the angular resolution of a telescope?

The angular resolution of a telescope is affected by the diameter of its aperture, the quality of its optics, and the wavelength of light being observed. A larger aperture and better optics will result in a higher angular resolution, while longer wavelengths will decrease the angular resolution.

Why is the angular resolution of a telescope important?

The angular resolution of a telescope is important because it determines the level of detail that can be observed in astronomical objects. A higher angular resolution allows for the observation of smaller and more distant objects, providing more accurate and detailed information about the universe.

What is the diffraction limit of a telescope?

The diffraction limit of a telescope is the theoretical limit of its angular resolution, determined by the wavelength of light and the diameter of its aperture. It is the smallest angle that two objects can be distinguished at, and can only be improved by increasing the aperture size or observing at shorter wavelengths.

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