Calculating the Angular Resolution of the Hubble Telescope

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SUMMARY

The angular resolution of the Hubble Telescope, with a primary mirror diameter of 2.4 meters and operating at a wavelength of 600 nm, is calculated using the formula θ = 1.22 * (λ/D). This results in an angular resolution of approximately 5.0 * 10^-7 radians or 0.0000286 degrees. Given the distance to the Moon at 3.84 * 10^8 meters, the smallest resolvable feature on the lunar surface is approximately 0.192 meters, or 19.2 centimeters.

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  • Understanding of angular resolution and its significance in astronomy
  • Familiarity with the formula θ = 1.22 * (λ/D)
  • Basic knowledge of wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum
  • Concept of distance measurement in astronomical contexts
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kingyof2thejring
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Qw The Hubble telescope has a primary mirror with diameter 2.4 m. Calculate the angular resolution of the Hubble telescope in both radians and degrees at a wavelength of 600 nm. Imagine that the Hubble telescope images the surface of the moon, 3.84*10^8 m away. What is the smallest feature on the surface of the moon that the telescope can resolve at a wavelength of 600 nm?
How do you solve for the second part of this question. thanks in advance
 
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The definition of an angle is? If you know the angular resolution, an object that subtends the resolution angle is the smallest thing that can be resolved.
 

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