Large Synoptic Survey Telescope

Definition

The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), now known as the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, is an advanced astronomical instrument designed for wide-field imaging of the night sky. It aims to capture dynamic events and gather vast amounts of data for various scientific analyses over a 10-year period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The LSST features an 8.4-meter primary mirror and a 3.2-gigapixel camera, one of the largest digital cameras ever constructed.
2. Located in Chile, its site provides optimal observing conditions due to minimal light pollution and stable atmospheric conditions.
3. Its primary goal is to conduct a decade-long survey covering the entire visible sky every few nights.
4. The LSST will generate approximately 15 terabytes of data each night, contributing significantly to big data challenges in astronomy.
5. Key scientific objectives include mapping the Milky Way, detecting transient events like supernovae, and studying dark matter and dark energy.

Review Questions

• What are the main scientific goals of the LSST?
• How does the location of the LSST benefit its observations?
• What is significant about the camera used in the LSST?

Related terms

Hubble Space Telescope:

A space telescope launched by NASA that has provided crucial data on distant galaxies and cosmic phenomena since 1990

Keck Observatory:

An astronomical observatory with two large telescopes located in Hawaii known for their high-resolution observations

Dark Energy Survey:

A project that uses a dedicated telescope in Chile to study dark energy by surveying a portion of the sky