Expert: Jayendra Upadhye - 7/20/2008

Question
hello,

What is the difference between large and small radio telescopes? do big telescopes detect weaker signals than small ones? can both sizes detect man made signals?

Thankyou for your time and help,

Alice


Answer
Alice,

There is essentially not much difference excpet for certain structural concepts that increase the base line of observation (VLA Very Large Array), increasing not only power to amplify weaak signals, but increasing the resolution.

As with optical telescopes, (radio being electromagnetic radiation or ultr low frequency light only), larger size means greater collecting power, and sensitivity to weak signals.

Greater aperture also adds to this.

Also, resolution is greater with larger telescopes.

hope that suffices,

please do rate the answer.

regards
Jayen