AAO image reference AAT 4c. « Previous || Next »
Image and text © 2000 Anglo-Australian Observatory, photograph by David Malin.
When the Anglo-Australian Telescope is used to take conventional photographs the observer rides in the prime focus 'cage' at the top end of the telescope where light from the primary mirror is brought to a focus. However, now astronomical images are made with sophisticated electronic detectors known a CCDs (charge-coupled devices). These are larger and more elaborate versions of the light detectors used in most digital cameras. In practice they are used remotely from the telescope control room and there is now no need for the observer to ride inside the 'cage' to change plates and filters. Not only is there no need -- there is no room, so now pictures can be made without actually seeing a star at all. This picture was made in about 2000.
Related Images
AAT 4a. A young observer at AAT prime focus
AAT 4b. A mature observer at AAT prime focus