Can a spy satellite read the house number on your mailbox?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the capability of a spy satellite to read a house number on a mailbox from a height of 200 km using a 2m diameter concave mirror and yellow light at 600 nm. The Rayleigh criterion formula, θ_min = 1.22 * (Wavelength / Diameter), is essential for determining the resolving power of the satellite. The participants conclude that the size of the object being observed is critical for accurate calculations. The discussion emphasizes the need for precise definitions of variables in optical physics to derive meaningful results.

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  • Understanding of optical physics concepts, particularly the Rayleigh criterion.
  • Familiarity with basic formulas related to optics, including resolving power calculations.
  • Knowledge of wavelength and its impact on image resolution.
  • Basic principles of satellite imaging technology.
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  • Research the Rayleigh criterion in detail and its applications in satellite imaging.
  • Explore the effects of different wavelengths on optical resolution.
  • Learn about the design and functionality of concave mirrors in telescopic systems.
  • Investigate the limitations of satellite imaging due to atmospheric conditions.
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Optical physicists, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in satellite imaging technology and its practical applications in surveillance and reconnaissance.

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If the spy satellite, which is 200km above the earth, uses a concave mirror 2m in diameter and yellow light at 600 nm find the answer. show all formulas and work to support the correct solution. with that resolving power what could the spy satellite actually see? (ignore variations in air density and temperature.)

The only formulas that I can see as being useful are: thetamin = 1.22*Wavelength/distance (Rayleigh criterion) and 1/focus =1/object+1/image

Quite frankly I don't think there is enough information to figure this out. Any help would be appreciated.
 
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Plasmosis1 said:
The only formulas that I can see as being useful are: thetamin = 1.22*Wavelength/distance (Rayleigh criterion)
"Distance" should be "size of the object" (or, alternatively, size of the mirror).
You can use that formula to calculate everything in this problem.
 

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