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
- Big Telescope Altazimuth mounts allow for easy tracking of celestial objects by moving in two perpendicular axes.
- These mounts are more mechanically simple compared to equatorial mounts, which makes them less expensive and easier to maintain for large telescopes.
- They require computer control systems to correct for field rotation during long exposures, as they do not inherently follow Earth's rotation.
- Modern altazimuth mounts can support massive telescopes, such as those found in major astronomical observatories like the Very Large Telescope (VLT).
- 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.
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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
