Visual Observation: Astronomy
The advancement of technology has enhanced human ability to make observations, not only on the earth but on the whole universe. There are numerous technologies used to survey the universe from earth. The universe presents an enormous amount of information which is highly valued by many factions. Making observations and formulating the characteristics of the universe is an important part of understanding how the world works. Scientists for the last few centuries have used various equipment to survey the universe. Some of the greatest scientific discoveries such as the revolution and rotation of earth and gravity have been due to consistent observation made by scientist on the universe. The observations assist the scientists to come up with realistic explanations on various phenomena. Some of the world’s most important technology is based on the observations and analyses made by scientists. For instance, communication around the globe is highly enhanced by the presence of satellites placed in spaced as a result of scientific discovery. These technologies impact on the whole world. This shows the significance of the observations made on earth and outer space. An essential aspect of these processes is the equipment used in the observations.
There are a number of equipments used for surveillance by different individuals. However, the most common and historically relevant equipment is the telescope. The telescope is the most utilized equipment in the surveillance of the universe. The telescope was invented in the 17th century, with there being credible evidence of its use in Netherlands in 1608. Galileo is credited with having had a significant contribution to the improvement of the telescope. He heard of the Dutch invention in 1609 and took to designing one of his which resulted in significant improvements. Other considerable improvements within the same century were implemented by Sir Isaac Newton who changed the workings of the telescope by building a practical reflecting telescope. Gradual improvements have been done over the centuries with the 20th century having another significant impact with the incorporation of new knowledge such as gamma-rays into the functioning of the telescope in 1937. The period after 1937 to the 21st century saw tremendous improvement in telescope technology, largely due to the advancement of technology such as computers. Since then there are complex varieties of telescopes used for universal surveillance of different things.
There are different types of telescopes, differentiated by their functionality. Each type of telescope is used for a different function, either due to their ability to observe or design. These differences allow for the specialization of telescopes such that telescopes are built with a specific function in mind. The first type of telescope is the optical telescope. The optical telescope functions by gathering and focusing light from the electromagnetic spectrum. It gathers light from the visible parts of the spectrum even though some are able to function in the infrared and ultraviolet parts. The telescope uses glass lenses, mirrors and other optical elements to increase the angular size of the image of objects from a substantial distance. There are refracting, reflecting or catadioptric optical telescopes which either use lenses, mirrors or both in the observation of outer space object.
Radio telescopes use radio waves to receive and transmit information in form of images, sounds and other forms to satellites is space. These are mainly used in the communication in the form of voice communication, internet and television and radio. They are characteristically dish shaped and are constructed using a mesh of conductive wires in order to ensure effective and efficient functioning.
X-ray telescopes are used in space for observation and collection of information on varied aspects. They use x-ray optics in their functioning. They were invented in 1952 by Hans Wolter. A good example of such a telescope is the Einstein observatory.
Another type of telescopes presently used by different organizations include the gamma ray telescope which uses gamma rays to collect information on earth and in space. Some of them are located on most satellites in space and in high flying balloons. Another type is the high-energy particle telescope. This uses a complex system of optical elements incorporated with other technology with the purpose of forming high resolution images or making observations from substantial distances. Other telescopes include the gravitational wave detector and the neutrino detector.
Another instrumental part of visual observations using telescopes is the telescope mount. The telescope mount consists of mechanical systems that support and allow for the navigation of the telescope as it makes observations. The technology incorporated in a telescope mount has improved with the telescope over the centuries. The telescope is often a big object and thus requires substantial support. Therefore, the initial function of the telescope mount was just to support the telescope. However, as the telescope developed, lighter materials were used to build it and thus allowed for the change in functioning of the telescope mount. Depending on the telescope, the mount could have different functions such as automated movement of the telescope. It could also hold the information processing computers which process raw information in highly developed telescopes.
