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intervoxel
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Supposing a perfect optical instrument, what is the best angular resolution possible when observing distant stars?
intervoxel said:Supposing a perfect optical instrument, what is the best angular resolution possible when observing distant stars?
Angular resolution is a measure of the smallest angle at which two objects can be distinguished from each other. In astronomy, it refers to the minimum distance between two stars that can be resolved by a telescope or other observing instrument.
Angular resolution is important in astronomy because it determines the level of detail and clarity with which we can observe celestial objects. The higher the angular resolution, the better the quality of images and data we can obtain from our observations.
The main factors that affect angular resolution are the diameter of the telescope or observing instrument, the wavelength of light being observed, and atmospheric conditions. Larger telescopes and shorter wavelengths result in higher angular resolution, while atmospheric turbulence can decrease angular resolution.
The best possible observing distance for stars is determined by the optical resolution limit, also known as the diffraction limit. This is the minimum distance between two stars that can be resolved by a telescope, and it is dependent on the size and quality of the telescope's optics.
Yes, there are techniques and technologies that can improve angular resolution beyond the diffraction limit. Adaptive optics, which uses deformable mirrors to correct for atmospheric turbulence, and interferometry, which combines the light from multiple telescopes to increase resolution, have both been used successfully in astronomy to achieve higher angular resolution.