Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Dawes and Rayleigh limits?
The Dawes limit is an empirical rule for splitting close double stars of equal brightness and is slightly more optimistic. The Rayleigh limit is a theoretical diffraction limit based on the Airy disk and gives a slightly larger, more conservative resolution angle.
Why does a larger aperture resolve finer detail?
Resolution is set by diffraction, which depends on the ratio of wavelength to aperture diameter. A larger aperture makes that ratio smaller, so the smallest resolvable angle shrinks and the telescope can separate closer objects.
Does atmospheric seeing limit real resolution?
Yes. Turbulence in the atmosphere usually blurs images to about one or two arcseconds, which often limits resolution before the optics do. Steady air, high altitude, and good collimation all help approach the theoretical limit.
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