H.E.S.S. gamma ray telescope got an image of the moon

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SUMMARY

The H.E.S.S. gamma ray telescope has successfully captured an image of the moon, but achieving high-resolution images of planetary surfaces using ground-based gamma ray telescopes presents significant challenges. The atmosphere absorbs original gamma photons, only allowing secondary lower-energy gamma photons to be detected, which complicates imaging efforts. To accurately capture the original gamma rays, observations must be conducted from space. The VERITAS array, consisting of four telescopes, enhances the ability to determine the direction of incoming gamma rays by providing multiple perspectives on air showers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gamma ray astronomy
  • Familiarity with atmospheric effects on gamma ray detection
  • Knowledge of space-based versus ground-based observation techniques
  • Experience with air shower detection methods in astrophysics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the capabilities of space-based gamma ray telescopes like Fermi and their imaging techniques
  • Explore the principles of air shower detection and analysis in gamma ray astronomy
  • Learn about the VERITAS array and its role in improving gamma ray source localization
  • Investigate the atmospheric interactions affecting gamma ray observations and mitigation strategies
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and researchers interested in gamma ray detection and imaging techniques, particularly those focusing on planetary surface analysis and atmospheric effects on gamma radiation.

Noduagga
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https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Moon_egret.jpg

Can we use better telescopes of this type (ground based gamma rays telescopes) to image the surface and subsurface of a planet with a lot of resolution?
 
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That is from Egret, not Hess.

It took 3 years to make that image. That tells you how difficult it would be to get a better image.
 
Noduagga said:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Moon_egret.jpg

Can we use better telescopes of this type (ground based gamma rays telescopes) to image the surface and subsurface of a planet with a lot of resolution?

you will find there's a lack of ground based gamma telescopes for a good reason. You don't get to see the original gamma photons as they are stopped by the atmosphere, fortunately for life on earth. Rather you get to see showers of secondary lower energy gamma photons after the originators collide with particles in the atmosphere.
Hence, if you want to see the original source gamma rays, you must do so from space ... i.e. from orbitDave
 
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davenn said:
you will find there's a lack of ground based gamma telescopes for a good reason. You don't get to see the original gamma photons as they are stopped by the atmosphere, fortunately for life on earth. Rather you get to see showers of secondary lower energy gamma photons after the originators collide with particles in the atmosphere.
Hence, if you want to see the original source gamma rays, you much do so from space ... i.e. from orbitDave
Well i don't mind if we can use this secondary particles to map the surface of a planet. Can we?
 
Noduagga said:
Well i don't mind if we can use this secondary particles to map the surface of a planet. Can we?

but do they have any idea of the origin direction of the source gamma ray when the angle of the shower particles are so spread out ?

As of yet, I haven't seen anything in print to that effect ... open to links for such:smile:

Dave

PS. lots more reading
The four telescopes in the VERITAS array each provide a different view of an air shower, providing a better fix on the direction of the incoming gamma ray.

emphasis on the words "better fix" so that does help narrow down the source direction a bit
 
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