|
Summary of Article
Why use an aircraft to look into the heavens? Simple. This
article describes NASA's newest airborne astronomical
observatory, the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared
Astronomy (SOFIA). SOFIA, whose maiden flight is
scheduled for the year 2000, will study the infrared radiation
that is usually absorbed in our atmosphere from an elevation of
40,000 feet. SOFIA's work will give us a better understanding
of the Sun, the Sun's planets and their satellites, asteroids,
comets, stars, the Milky Way, and other galaxies.
Back to top
Suggested
Age/Grade Levels
Age Level: 11 - 14
Grade Level: 6th grade - 9th grade
Related Topics
Astronomy
Learn how scientists observe the heavens by using the
electromagnetic spectrum.
Earth Science
Investigate the Earth's atmosphere and its properties.
Back to top
Objectives
After studying the article, students should be able to:
- Differentiate various types of radiation and name uses for each.
- Explain why the study of radiation at high elevations is more
advantageous than low-elevation studies.
Back to top
Questions for Discussion
Q: Why would scientists want to study astronomy from 40,000 feet?
A: The Earth's atmosphere acts as a filter of electromagnetic
radiation. By placing a telescope above this filter, SOFIA
can detect forms of radiation that ground-based telescopes cannot.
Q: How many forms of electromagnetic radiation can you name?
A: Gamma, X-ray, ultraviolet (UV), visible, infrared (IR),
and radio waves are all forms of electromagnetic radiation.
Q: What is X-ray radiation used for besides astronomy?
A: X-rays are used for medical purposes. The penetrating
radiation is good for taking pictures of the insides of things.
Doctors use X-rays to photograph bones inside a body
to determine whether there are any breaks or other problems. Welders
can use X-rays to see if their welds are strong enough to
hold.
Back to top
Quiz
Click here for
an Astronomy for the Jet Set quiz.
*Please use your browser's back button to return to the
Astronomy for the Jet Set teacher's guide.
Back to top
Just the Facts
The Earth's atmosphere acts as a filter of electromagnetic radiation.
For example, water particles in the air absorb infrared radiation.
Placing a telescope in an airplane allows scientists to "see" radiation
that cannot be observed at lower elevations.
SOFIA is not the first airborne observatory. It is a descendant of the
Kuiper Airborne Observatory (KAO).
Back to top
Links
to Relevant Web Sites and Additional Resources
http://observe.ivv.nasa.gov/nasa/exhibits/sofia/sofia_ref.html
*Page will open in a new window.
Back to top
Vocabulary
wavelength: distance from one peak of a wave to the next peak
of a wave.
gamma rays: extremely short wavelength radiation generated by
nuclear explosions and radioactive decay; wavelength
range of less than ten trillionths of a meter.
X-rays: high-energy waves with great penetrating power; used
extensively in medical applications; have a wavelength
range of about ten billionths of a meter to about 10
trillionths of a meter.
ultraviolet (UV) radiation: radiation within the wavelength
range of 400 billionths of a meter to about 10
billionths of a meter; UV radiation can cause
sunburn and high doses can lead to skin cancer.
infrared radiation: radiation with a wavelength of
about one millimeter; thermal radiation (heat).
Back to top
For Fun
Just for fun, play our
Astronomy for the Jet Set Wordsearch game.
*Please use your browser's back button to return to the
Astronomy for the Jet Set teacher's guide.
Back to top
Back to Index of Articles
|