Which of these techniques is the key factor in a telescope that uses adaptive optics to correct for atmospheric distortion of images, or "seeing"?
A) Computer-controlled motors rapidly adjust the orientation and position of the separate primary mirrors in a multiple-mirror telescope (MMT).
B) A corrector lens compensates for image distortion by electronic control of its shape.
C) Computer-controlled motors adjust the position and shape of one of the small mirrors within the optics many times per second.
D) The light rays are focused electronically, without the use of lenses or mirrors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adaptive optics systems use computer-controlled motors to adjust the position and shape of a deformable mirror in real-time, compensating for atmospheric distortion by altering the mirror's surface to correct the incoming light waves. This allows for much clearer images of celestial objects than would otherwise be possible through Earth's turbulent atmosphere.

Which of These Techniques Is the Key Factor in a Telescope