What Information Can We Get from Each Part of the Spectrum?
- Radio Waves: These are used to study cold gas clouds and cosmic microwave background radiation, providing insights into the early universe. - Microwaves: Often used in studying the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the afterglow of the Big Bang. - Infrared Radiation: Reveals details about star formation, as it can penetrate dust clouds that obscure visible light. - Visible Light: The most familiar part of the spectrum, used to study stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects. - Ultraviolet Radiation: Helps in understanding hot, young stars and the interstellar medium. - X-rays: Provide information about high-energy processes and objects like neutron stars and black holes. - Gamma Rays: Used to study the most energetic and violent phenomena in the universe, such as supernova explosions and gamma-ray bursts.