Saturday, August 22, 2015

Astronomical Optics Part 1

This is the first part in a series of astronomical optics lessons to address the lack of fundamental optics concepts introduced locally. Astronomy as a science is dependent on light, so be it in theory or application a significant understanding of optics must be available to an astronomer's knowledge base.

For the first discussion in the series, geometrical optics was introduced. Ray tracing and computations were made beginning from the use of the lens equation
1/f = 1/p + 1/q
up to the computations for combined lenses in an astronomical refractor. Aberrations and light scattering concepts were also discussed.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Stargate: Debunking a Mars Hoax

Stargate Episode 1: Debunking a Mars Hoax
The never ending Mars hoax has resurfaced again with the recent posts on social media of Mars appearing as big as the Moon on August 27. This podcast will try to explain just what does it take to have the red planet appear as big as the Moon.