How Do Scientists Know Light from Distant Heavenly Bodies Isn't a Reflection?

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SUMMARY

Scientists determine that light from distant heavenly bodies is not merely a reflection by analyzing the properties of light and its interaction with spacetime. Cosmologists propose that the curvature of spacetime can affect the apparent position and visibility of galaxies. The discussion highlights that red objects reflect specific frequencies of light, but the intensity and path of that light can prevent it from reaching the observer. Understanding these principles is crucial for interpreting astronomical observations accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cosmological redshift
  • Familiarity with spacetime curvature concepts
  • Knowledge of light frequency and reflection principles
  • Basic principles of photon behavior and visibility
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of spacetime curvature on light propagation
  • Study the principles of cosmological redshift in detail
  • Explore the behavior of photons in different mediums
  • Investigate the methods used in astronomical observations to confirm light sources
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physicists, and students of cosmology who seek to deepen their understanding of light behavior and its implications in the observation of distant celestial objects.

jobyts
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1. How does scientists know that the light from far distant heavenly bodies are actually from those, or some kind of reflection?

2. If a red object reflects only red frequency light, why I do not see red light from that object to the surrounding?
 
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1. Some cosmologists speculate that far-field galactic images are reflected by spacetime curvature to produce most of the "galaxies" apparent there.

2. If I understand you correctly, perhaps the light it reflects is not intense enough, that it is en route to you, or that it shines upon objects that absorb, rather than reflect, red light. Otherwise, it might not have a train of photons that eventually leads back to you, the observer. You cannot observe a photon traveling perpendicular to you, i. e., that does not at sometime strike your senses directly.

What made you think of this situation? The cosmological redshift?
 

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