Big Telescope Altazimuth

Definition

Big Telescope Altazimuth mounts are used for large telescopes and offer two-axis movement: altitude (up/down) and azimuth (side to side). This type of mount simplifies the design and alignment process for large astronomical observatories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Big Telescope Altazimuth mounts allow for easy tracking of celestial objects by moving in two perpendicular axes.
2. These mounts are more mechanically simple compared to equatorial mounts, which makes them less expensive and easier to maintain for large telescopes.
3. They require computer control systems to correct for field rotation during long exposures, as they do not inherently follow Earth's rotation.
4. Modern altazimuth mounts can support massive telescopes, such as those found in major astronomical observatories like the Very Large Telescope (VLT).
5. The increased payload capacity and structural simplicity make them ideal for housing the largest optical and radio telescopes in use today.

Review Questions

• What are the two axes of movement in a Big Telescope Altazimuth mount?
• Why do Big Telescope Altazimuth mounts require computer control systems during long exposures?
• Give an example of a major astronomical observatory that uses a Big Telescope Altazimuth mount.

Related terms

Equatorial Mount: A telescope mounting system aligned with Earth's rotational axis, allowing for straightforward tracking of celestial objects along their diurnal motion

Field Rotation: The apparent rotation of an image during long exposures due to the altazimuth mount's movement not being aligned with Earth's rotation

Very Large Telescope (VLT): An array of four optical telescopes located in Chile that utilizes altazimuth mounts