CHARA

Definition

CHARA (Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy) is an array of six telescopes located on Mount Wilson, California. It is designed to achieve high angular resolution through interferometry, primarily in the infrared spectrum.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CHARA uses interferometry to combine the light from its six telescopes, effectively creating a telescope with a resolution equivalent to a much larger single telescope.
2. The array operates mainly in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, which allows it to observe cooler objects and penetrate dust clouds.
3. Mount Wilson was chosen for CHARA due to its stable atmospheric conditions, which are ideal for high-resolution observations.
4. One of the primary scientific goals of CHARA is to measure the diameters of stars and other celestial bodies with unprecedented precision.
5. CHARA's high angular resolution capabilities allow astronomers to study binary star systems and stellar surfaces in great detail.

Review Questions

• What technique does CHARA use to achieve high angular resolution?
• Why is near-infrared observation important for CHARA's research?
• What kind of celestial bodies can CHARA measure with high precision?

Related terms

Interferometry: A technique that combines waves from multiple telescopes to produce higher-resolution images.

Infrared Astronomy: The study of astronomical objects using infrared radiation, which can reveal details not seen in visible light.

Binary Star System: A system where two stars orbit around a common center of mass, often studied using high-resolution telescopes like CHARA.