Purchase Solution

Hubble Space Telescope - the resolving power

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) orbits Earth at an altitude of 613 km. It has an objective mirror that is 2.4 m in diameter. If the HST were to look down on Earth's surface (rather than up at the stars), what is the minimum separation of two objects that could be resolved using 550 nm light? [Note: The HST is used only for astronomical work, but a classified number of similar telescopes are in orbit for spy purposes.]

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

Easy and clear steps with explanations and final answer.

Solution Preview

The angular resolution of a telecope can be calculated using R = L/D where L is the wavelength of the observed radiation and D is the diameter of the ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Introduction to Nanotechnology/Nanomaterials

This quiz is for any area of science. Test yourself to see what knowledge of nanotechnology you have. This content will also make you familiar with basic concepts of nanotechnology.

The Moon

Test your knowledge of moon phases and movement.

Variables in Science Experiments

How well do you understand variables? Test your knowledge of independent (manipulated), dependent (responding), and controlled variables with this 10 question quiz.

Basic Physics

This quiz will test your knowledge about basic Physics.

Classical Mechanics

This quiz is designed to test and improve your knowledge on Classical Mechanics.