Telescope

A telescope is a device used to observe distant objects by detecting the electromagnetic radiation they emit, absorb, or reflect. Initially, telescopes were optical instruments that used lenses, curved mirrors, or a combination of both to observe faraway objects. Today, the term "telescope" refers to a wide range of varieties of instruments designed to detect different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, and in some cases, other forms of signals or radiation.

Types of Telescopes:

1. Optical telescopes: use visible light to form images and are common for stargazing.
2. Radio telescopes: collect radio waves and convert them into signals to study phenomena invisible in visible light.
3. X-ray and gamma-ray telescopes: detect high-energy radiation, often requiring space-based platforms to avoid atmospheric interference.

1. Telescopes help astronomers observe celestial objects like stars, planets, and galaxies from Earth or space.
2. Space telescopes, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, collect precise data about distant galaxies and cosmic phenomena.
3. They capture and analyse light to produce clear images of faraway objects.
4. Telescopes provide detailed visual data, enhancing our understanding of the universe.
5. They play a crucial role in studying the structure, movement, and composition of celestial bodies.
6. Telescopes help in discovering new stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena.
7. They help monitor space events, such as eclipses or meteor showers.
8. Advanced telescopes also detect non-visible radiation, like X-rays or radio waves, for a broader study of the cosmos.