Why do astronomers need different telescope designs to observe across the electromagnetic spectrum?
A)Telescopes have to adapt to the greater distortion of the atmosphere at shorter wavelengths.
B)Because light pollution is worse at radio wavelengths than visible wavelengths
C)Photons of different energy behave differently and require different collection strategies.
D)New telescopes incorporate new technology to increase their efficiency.
E)Astronomers and engineers enjoy the challenge of making new telescope designs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Photons of different energy behave differently and require different collection strategies. Different telescope designs are needed to observe different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum because photons with different energies act differently. For example, X-ray photons require grazing incidence mirrors to focus them onto detectors, while radio photons need large dishes to collect and focus them. Additionally, the atmosphere affects different wavelength ranges differently, which can require special adaptations in telescope design.

Why Do Astronomers Need Different Telescope Designs to Observe Across