Maximizing Telescope Resolution: Finding the Optimal Eyepiece Focal Length

In summary, the conversation discusses constructing a telescope with a specific resolving power to view features on the Moon. The necessary focal-length eyepiece is calculated using the formula for resolving power and the resolution limit set by the size of the objective lens is also determined. There is some confusion about the relationship to the eyepiece in the first question, but further assistance is sought.
  • #1
grouper
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Homework Statement



Suppose that you wish to construct a telescope that can resolve features 7.0 km across on the Moon, 384,000 km away. You have a 2.2 m-focal-length objective lens whose diameter is 10.5 cm. What focal-length eyepiece is needed if your eye can resolve objects 0.10 mm apart at a distance of 25 cm? What is the resolution limit (radians) set by the size of the objective lens (that is, by diffraction)? Use λ=550 nm.

Homework Equations



Resolving power=RP=s=f*θ=(1.22*λ*f)/D where s=distance between two resolvable points, f=focal length of objective lens, D=diameter, and θ=angle between objects

The Attempt at a Solution



Using θ=(1.22*λ)/D, I got θ=6.39e-6 rad, which is correct for the second question. I don't really understand the relationship to the eyepiece in the first question though. θ=8e-3 rad for the first situation, but I'm not sure this is needed. I tried θ=s/f (even though this f refers to the objective lens) just to see what would happen and it gave f=0.125 m, which is incorrect. Any help is appreciated, thanks.
 
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  • #2
Still haven't figured this one out if anybody has any suggestions at all; it's due this weekend.
 

What is the resolution power of a telescope?

The resolution power of a telescope refers to its ability to distinguish between two closely spaced objects in the sky. It is a measure of how much detail the telescope can see.

What factors affect the resolution power of a telescope?

The resolution power of a telescope is affected by the diameter of its objective lens or mirror, the wavelength of light it is observing, and the atmospheric conditions at the time of observation.

How is the resolution power of a telescope calculated?

The resolution power of a telescope can be calculated using the formula: R = 1.22λ/D, where R is the resolution in arcseconds, λ is the wavelength of light being observed, and D is the diameter of the telescope's objective lens or mirror in meters.

What is the relationship between resolution power and magnification in a telescope?

Contrary to popular belief, magnification does not directly affect the resolution power of a telescope. Increasing the magnification may make objects appear larger, but it does not improve the telescope's ability to resolve detail.

How can the resolution power of a telescope be improved?

The resolution power of a telescope can be improved by increasing the diameter of its objective lens or mirror, reducing atmospheric disturbances with adaptive optics, or using shorter wavelengths of light such as infrared or radio waves.

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