Calculating Angle of Saturn from Earth Using a Refracting Telescope

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the angle that Saturn subtends when viewed from Earth using a refracting telescope. The context includes specific measurements related to the telescope's focal length and the image produced.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use the image diameter as the image height in their calculations but expresses confusion about the outcome. Some participants suggest considering the plate scale of the telescope and question how it relates to the image height and angle.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationship between the plate scale and the image height, with some providing guidance on the concept of plate scale. There is an ongoing inquiry into how to correctly apply these concepts to the problem at hand.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the definitions and applications of terms such as plate scale and image height, which are critical to solving the problem. The original poster's confusion indicates a need for clarification on these concepts.

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Homework Statement




Saturn is viewed through the Lick Observatory refracting telescope (objective focal length 18 m). If the diameter of the image produced by the objective is 1.7 mm, what angle does Saturn subtend when viewed from earth?


Homework Equations



\theta = -y'/f1, where \theta is the angle that Saturn subtends when viewed by the unaided eye, y' is the height of the image formed by the objective and f1 is the focal length of the objective.

The Attempt at a Solution



I used the image diameter as the image height (1.7 mm). It did not work. I don't see why that is wrong. Can someone please tell me?
 
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What exactly am I supposed to do with this? Use it for the image height? I am confused about what a plate scale is, and how I could use it to find the image height.
 
I guess my question would be, what is the point of finding the plate scale? How does it relate to the image height?
 
The plate scale is the image height/angle.
You know the image height and you want the angle.
 

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