Gemini South

Definition

Gemini South is one of the twin telescopes in the Gemini Observatory, located in Chile. It is designed to observe the southern hemisphere's sky with advanced optical and infrared capabilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gemini South is situated on Cerro Pachón in Chile, at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters.
2. It features an 8.1-meter primary mirror, allowing it to gather a significant amount of light for detailed observations.
3. The telescope operates using adaptive optics technology to correct for atmospheric distortions.
4. Gemini South works in conjunction with its northern counterpart, Gemini North, to provide comprehensive sky coverage from both hemispheres.
5. It supports a variety of instruments, including spectrographs and cameras, facilitating diverse astronomical research.

Review Questions

Related terms

Adaptive Optics:

A technology used in telescopes to adjust for the blurring effects of Earth's atmosphere.

Spectrograph:

An instrument that separates light into its component wavelengths for analysis.

Primary Mirror:

The main light-gathering surface of a telescope, critical for focusing incoming light.