Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the capabilities of the Hubble Space Telescope, particularly in relation to imaging distant objects such as the moon landing sites and the sensitivity of the telescope in detecting faint light sources. Participants explore the implications of angular resolution and exposure time in capturing images of dim objects.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant claims that Hubble's angular resolution is insufficient to image the moon landing sites, questioning a statement made by a former director of Hubble regarding its ability to detect light from a firefly at that distance.
- Another participant suggests that while Hubble can detect faint light sources due to its sensitivity, it may not resolve closely spaced objects as separate sources.
- A further contribution emphasizes that Hubble can gather enough photons to detect dim objects by extending exposure times, noting that it can take weeks to capture a single image.
- Participants inquire about the actual exposure time for the Deep Field image, with one asserting it was approximately 29 days and mentioning the role of the Fine Guidance Sensor in stabilizing the telescope's focus on targets.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the implications of Hubble's angular resolution and sensitivity, with no consensus reached regarding the specific capabilities related to imaging the moon landing sites.
Contextual Notes
Discussion includes assumptions about angular resolution and sensitivity, as well as the dependence on exposure time for imaging faint objects. Specific details about the Deep Field image's exposure time and the function of the Fine Guidance Sensor are mentioned but not resolved.