Member-only story

How Infrared Astronomy Is Expanding Our View Of The Universe

Dakota Powell

·14.3k Followers· Follow

Published in More Things In The Heavens: How Infrared Astronomy Is Expanding Our View Of The Universe

3 min read · 1 month before

178 View Claps

9 Respond

Save

Listen

Infrared astronomy is a relatively new field of study, but it has already made a significant impact on our understanding of the universe. Infrared telescopes can see through dust and gas, which allows us to see objects that are hidden from view in visible light. This has led to the discovery of new planets, stars, and galaxies, and has helped us to better understand the evolution of the universe.

More Things in the Heavens: How Infrared Astronomy Is Expanding Our View of the Universe

by Sarah Castille

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	76283 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	298 pages

The History of Infrared Astronomy

The first infrared telescope was built in 1893 by Samuel Pierpont Langley. However, it was not until the 1960s that infrared astronomy began to develop as a major field of study. This was due in part to the development of new infrared detectors, which made it possible to observe objects at much fainter infrared wavelengths.

In the 1970s and 1980s, a number of important discoveries were made using infrared telescopes. These discoveries included the first detection of extrasolar planets, the discovery of the first brown dwarfs, and the discovery of the first galaxies that were forming in the early universe.

The Importance of Infrared Astronomy

Infrared astronomy is important because it allows us to see objects that are hidden from view in visible light. This has led to the discovery of new planets, stars, and galaxies, and has helped us to better understand the evolution of the universe.

Infrared telescopes are also used to study the atmospheres of planets, moons, and comets. This information can help us to better understand the composition of these objects and their potential for habitability.

The Future of Infrared Astronomy

The future of infrared astronomy is bright. New infrared telescopes are being built that will be able to observe objects at even fainter infrared wavelengths. These telescopes will allow us to see even deeper into the universe and to make even more discoveries about its history and evolution.

Infrared astronomy is a powerful tool that is helping us to learn more about the universe. Infrared telescopes have already made a significant impact on our understanding of the universe, and they are sure to continue to make important discoveries in the years to come.

More Things in the Heavens: How Infrared Astronomy Is Expanding Our View of the Universe

by Sarah Castille

4.6 out of 5