Final answer:
In space exploration and astronomy, frame of reference is crucial for defining position and motion. It can limit accuracy due to Earth's motion and atmosphere, but using multiple frames and a combination of terrestrial and extra-terrestrial telescopes can mitigate these issues. Special relativity also shows that different frames can yield different measurements of time and space.
Step-by-step explanation:
Frame of reference plays a significant role in space exploration and astronomy, especially when studying space from Earth. It provides a necessary perspective to describe position or motion, particularly in the realm of astrophysics and assessing celestial objects. However, relying solely on the Earth as a frame of reference can limit accuracy due to its own motion and the effects of its atmosphere. A solution to improve observational precision is employing multiple frames of reference to cross-verify findings. This can be achieved by using a variety of observational platforms, such as ground-based telescopes, satellites, and space telescopes, like the Hubble Space Telescope or the ESA's Hipparcos satellite that has made parallax measurements without the atmospheric distortions present on Earth.
For example, different frames of reference must be considered when discussing the motions of an astronaut traveling near the speed of light due to the special theory of relativity, indicating that measurements of time and space can differ between observers. In such extreme cases, frames of reference can hinder by complicating calculations, but also help deepen our understanding of the universe. Across all cases, physicists choose the most convenient frame of reference, even if it introduces inertial forces, allowing them to apply Newton's laws effectively.