Space-Based Astronomy

Activity Guide for Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education

95

Space-based astronomy - Astronomical investiga-

tions conducted from above Earth's atmosphere.

Spectrograph - An instrument used for dispers-

ing and recording specific wavelengths of the

electromagnetic spectrum.

Spectroscopy - The study of spectra.

Speed of light - The speed at which light trav-

els-300,000 kilometers per second.

Supernova - A stellar explosion which increases

the brightness of a star by a factor of several mil-

lion in a matter of days.

Ultraviolet (UV) - Electromagnetic radiation

with wavelengths ranging from approximately

10

-7

to 10

-8

meters.

Visible light - Electromagnetic radiation with

wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 to

700 nanometers.

Wavelength - The distance between one wave

crest to the next wave crest (or one trough to the

next trough).

White dwarf - A small star that is actively fusing

helium into carbon and oxygen.

X-rays - Electromagnetic radiation with wave-

lengths ranging from approximately 10

-8

to 10

-11

meters.

* Space Based Atronomy.b/w 2/28/01 8:54 AM Page 95