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How can Hubble see distant galaxies clearly, but not Pluto?

How can Hubble see distant galaxies clearly, but not Pluto?

Assessment

Interactive Video

Physics, Science

University

Practice Problem

Hard

Created by

Wayground Content

FREE Resource

The video explains why the Hubble Space Telescope can capture clear images of distant galaxies but struggles with nearby objects like Pluto. This is due to the concept of angular diameter, which affects how large objects appear in the sky. The Andromeda Galaxy, despite being far away, appears large due to its size. In contrast, Pluto's small angular diameter makes it difficult to image. The video also discusses how astronomers measure celestial sizes using degrees, arcminutes, and arcseconds. The New Horizons mission provided detailed images of Pluto, which Hubble couldn't achieve. A visual analogy is used to illustrate these concepts, concluding the explanation.

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2 questions

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1.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

Why was the New Horizons mission to Pluto considered exciting, according to the text?

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2.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

In what way does the analogy of a flower and buildings help explain the concept of apparent size in astronomy?

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