Multiple-Intelligences Neural Interfacing Optimization Node
I'm a geek. No. Really. Really geeky. And I write poetry. And I read poetry. I'm an English teacher to-be.
This picture depicts the astrophysics missions of ESA and their observational coverage across the electromagnetic spectrum.
(via project-argus)
(via APOD: 2012 April 21 - 3 ATs)
They look like R2D2, but are the ATs for Panaral, so they’re AT-AT-AT, I guess?
Anyway, “AT” stands for Auxiliary Telescope, 1.8 meter movable telescopes designed to be used for interferometry in tandem with the 8 m Very Large Telescope units. Interferometry allows for very high resolution observations without having to build quite so monolithically large a mirror in the telescope. You use the observations from all the various ‘scopes to reduce interference from the atmosphere (by compensating for the effects of the air) and collect as much light as possible. It requires the light to all be added together and collected in underground tunnels with mirrors.
Pretty nifty “little” droids, if you ask me.
Image Credit & Copyright: Yuri Beletsky (ESO)
Phil Plait, the Bad Astronomer, was interviewed for this Popular Mechanics article about how to get started in amateur astronomy. It’s a really great guide for the perplexed. The recommendations are spot-on, including starting small and working up, getting good binoculars first, and joining an astronomy club.
Bonus link at the end: How to Build Your Own Dobsonian Telescope
Yep. Amateur astrophotography. (Mind you, he has plunked down for an awesome DSLR and some good ‘scope hardware and filters…not entirely home-brew.)
Click through for all the amazing images.
