Reflecting telescope optics problem-Angle on the sky to angle on a mirror

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the size of the Moon's image formed by a 3.6 m diameter mirror with an 8.5 m focal length, given that the Moon subtends an angle of 0.5° in the sky. The key equation for this problem is 1/s + 1/s' = 1/f, which relates object distance, image distance, and focal length. The participant expresses uncertainty about how to approach the problem, especially since their textbook focuses on refracting telescopes rather than reflecting ones. It is noted that the angle subtended by the object at the mirror is the same as that subtended by the image, similar to refracting telescopes. Overall, the discussion seeks guidance on applying these principles to solve the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



When viewed from Earth, the Moon subtends an angle of 0.5° in the sky. How large an image of the Moon will be formed by the 3.6 m diameter mirror of the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, which has a focal length of 8.5 m?

Homework Equations



1/s + 1/s' = 1/f, but I'm not sure what else.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm really not sure where to begin. My book only talks about refracting telescopes and we've yet to talk about reflecting telescopes in class. I thought initially it might have something to do with the distance to and radius of the moon but I couldn't figure out how to work those into the problems. I'd appreciate any help you have. Thanks!
 
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The angle the object subtended at the mirror is the same angle that the image subtends - just like for refracting telescopes.
 

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