How did we photograph the universe?

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In summary, The conversation discusses the existence of photos that appear to be taken from outside of the Milky Way or our galaxy cluster. The speaker questions how these photos were accomplished and the other person responds that they are not real photos, but rather CGI or a combination of real images and generated images. The limitation of only being able to photograph what we have physically reached or sent technology to is also mentioned as a factor.
  • #1
RoyalCat
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Lately I've watched a couple of YouTube clips showing various journeys through the universe, starting at Earth and ending with the many clusters of galaxies.

A question that came to mind, is how do we have photos that look like they've been taken by an observer outside the Milky Way, or outside our galaxy cluster, for that matter?

A quick google search, and a search of the forums didn't get me any results, so I'm passing the question on to you.

I'd really love to know how we accomplished these photos. :)
 
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  • #2
There are no such real photos. They are all CGI.
 
  • #3
S.Vasojevic said:
There are no such real photos. They are all CGI.

Based on what, then? Are they pure imagination, or do we have a way to actually compile them based on available information?
 
  • #4
Well, I don't know exactly what images/movies you are talking about. Some of them are strictly based on scientific facts, others are artistic representations.

We can only photograph things from were we been, or sent our technology. Since nothing 'man made' didn't left our galaxy, we obviosly don't have images of it from 'outside'.
 
  • #5
They are generated images, with a few real images mixed in.
 

1. How do we capture images of objects that are light years away?

The key to photographing distant objects in the universe is using powerful telescopes. These telescopes are equipped with lenses or mirrors that can gather and focus light from far away objects. The light is then captured by cameras, either digital or film, and the resulting images are processed and enhanced to reveal details that would otherwise be invisible to the human eye.

2. How do we deal with the vast distances and time involved in photographing the universe?

Photographing the universe requires patience and advanced technology. The light from distant objects takes a long time to reach us, so we are essentially looking back in time when we capture these images. Scientists also use advanced techniques, such as long exposure times and stacking multiple images, to overcome the challenges of capturing images of objects that are millions or even billions of light years away.

3. What kind of equipment is needed to photograph the universe?

To photograph the universe, scientists and photographers use a variety of equipment, including telescopes, cameras, filters, and computer software. Telescopes are the most essential tool, and they can range from small amateur telescopes to large, sophisticated observatory telescopes. Cameras can be digital or film, and they are often equipped with specialized filters to capture different wavelengths of light. Advanced computer software is also used to process and enhance the images.

4. How do we know what we are photographing is real and not just an illusion?

Scientists use a variety of methods to verify the authenticity of astronomical images. This includes comparing images taken by different telescopes and instruments, analyzing the data and measurements gathered from the images, and conducting follow-up observations. Additionally, many images are publicly available and can be verified by the general public.

5. How do we know the images we capture are accurate representations of the objects in the universe?

The images of the universe we see are not always true-to-life representations. In order to make the details of distant objects visible, scientists use a variety of techniques, such as color enhancement and false-color imaging. These techniques help reveal details and structures that would otherwise be invisible. However, the data and measurements gathered from these images are accurate and provide valuable insights into the objects and phenomena in the universe.

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