Question

What is meant in astronomy by the phrase "adaptive optics?

a. The mirrors and eyepiece of a large telescope are spring-loaded to allow them to return quickly to a known position.
b. Slow modifications are made to the pointing controls of a telescope to keep it pointed toward the target object.
c. The optical elements of a telescope are placed on vibration-free mounts to compensate for ground motion.
d. A laser is used to point the telescope more accurately at the source.
e. Rapid modifications are made to the tilt and location of the elements of a telescope to correct for the effects of atmospheric and instrumental distortion.

Answer 1

Adaptive optics in astronomy is a technology that corrects for atmospheric distortion in real-time, allowing telescopes to produce much sharper images.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phrase 'adaptive optics' in astronomy refers to a sophisticated optical technology where computers and actuators adjust the lenses and mirrors of a telescope in real-time to correct for image distortions caused by the Earth's turbulent atmosphere. Adaptive optics systems involve a flexible mirror that can change shape under computer control, compensating for the blurring effects of the atmosphere and enhancing the telescope's imaging capabilities, especially in the infrared region of the spectrum.

This results in sharper images that are almost as clear as those from space-based telescopes. Significant advancements have been made in telescopes owing to new technologies for creating and supporting lightweight mirrors, crucial for the implementation of adaptive optics. By actively modifying the shape of the telescope's optical elements, such as the mirror, atmospheric distortion is minimized, thus greatly improving the resolution and clarity of astronomical observations from ground-based observatories.