Final answer:
Observatories for objects in the radio and optical window, such as radio telescopes and optical telescopes with adaptive optics, are built on Earth, while special space observatories observe more penetrating radiation like X-rays.
Step-by-step explanation:
When objects are in the radio and optical window, observatories can be built on Earth called radio telescopes for radio astronomy or optical telescopes for visible-light astronomy. Radio waves are reflected by conducting surfaces such as metallic dishes that collect and focus the radio waves to be analyzed by receivers. Unlike radio waves, optical observations require telescopes equipped with different techniques like adaptive optics to correct for atmospheric turbulence and provide detailed images. For more penetrating radiation like X-rays and gamma rays, which usually pass straight through matter, special space observatories with uniquely designed mirrors are necessary.
Radio astronomy and visible-light astronomy both benefit from advancements in technology and observing techniques, having seen tremendous growth with facilities such as the US National Radio Astronomy Observatory in West Virginia and space observatories like the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Furthermore, radio interferometry and arrays like the VLA and ALMA enhance the resolution obtained by radio telescopes.