Question

When trying to decide where to locate a telescope, astronomers must consider a range of factors. Which requirement below would make it essential to launch a space telescope into orbit?

1) To get above all the clouds and away from city lights.
2) To observe objects that are farther away.
3) To detect wavelengths of light that are completely absorbed by the atmosphere.
4) To build the largest possible telescope that doesn't sag due to gravity.

Answer 1

To detect wavelengths of light absorbed by Earth's atmosphere, such as ultraviolet, X-ray, and gamma rays, it's essential to launch a space telescope into orbit. This enables direct observation without atmospheric interference, allowing for more detailed images and studies of celestial objects.

Step-by-step explanation:

Astronomers must consider several factors when choosing a location for telescopes. Among these, the most critical requirement that necessitates launching a space telescope into orbit is to detect wavelengths of light that are completely absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, such as ultraviolet, X-ray, and gamma-ray wavelengths. Earth's atmosphere, especially the water vapor, blocks most of these wavelengths, making it impossible to observe them from the ground.

Space telescopes offer significant advantages, such as getting above the distorting effects of the atmosphere, which is also beneficial at visible and infrared wavelengths. In space, stars do not twinkle, thus allowing for more detailed observations limited only by the size of the telescope. Observatories like the Hubble Space Telescope and others have been launched to make these kinds of observations possible.