How we study space

Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS)

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, which telescopes can detect to study the universe.

Observer effect

A phenomenon that can influence data collection in astronomy by altering the state of the observed object.

Radio Observatory

Facilities that detect radio wavelengths that can penetrate Earth's atmosphere, such as the Very Large Baseline Array (VLBA).

Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB)

Radiation remnant from the Big Bang detected by microwave observatories such as COBE, WMAP, and Planck.

Infrared Observatories

Telescopes that face challenges with longer IR wavelengths penetrating the atmosphere, using techniques like high altitude placement and cooling detectors.

Hubble Space Telescope

A famous visible light (optical) observatory that operates above the atmosphere to avoid distortion.

GALEX

An example of an ultraviolet observatory that requires orbital placement.

X-ray Observatories

Telescopes that must be in orbit due to atmospheric blockage, utilizing unique focusing techniques, such as NuSTAR and Chandra.

Gamma-ray Observatories

Facilities that detect gamma rays indirectly, as they cannot be focused directly, examples include Fermi Space Telescope and Swift.

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

An upcoming infrared observatory designed to explore early galaxies and star formation.