IRAM

Definition

IRAM (Institute for Radio Astronomy in the Millimeter Range) is a prominent research organization focused on millimeter-wave radio astronomy. It operates some of the world's most advanced radio telescopes to study celestial objects and phenomena in the millimeter wavelength range.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. IRAM operates two main facilities: the 30-meter telescope located in Spain and the NOEMA array in France.
2. The 30-meter telescope is among the largest and most sensitive single-dish millimeter-wavelength telescopes in the world.
3. NOEMA (NOrthern Extended Millimeter Array) consists of multiple antennas that work together as an interferometer to achieve high-resolution observations.
4. IRAM's telescopes are crucial for studying cold molecular gas and dust in space, which are essential for understanding star formation and galaxy evolution.
5. Research conducted at IRAM has led to significant discoveries, including detailed studies of interstellar molecules and distant galaxies.

Review Questions

• What are the two main facilities operated by IRAM?
• Why is IRAM important for studying cold molecular gas and dust in space?
• What kind of astronomical phenomena can be studied using IRAM's telescopes?

Related terms

Interferometer: A device that combines signals from multiple telescopes to achieve higher resolution.

Millimeter Waves: Electromagnetic waves with wavelengths between one millimeter and ten millimeters, ideal for radio astronomy.

Single-Dish Telescope: A type of radio telescope consisting of a single large parabolic antenna used to collect data from celestial sources.