The invisible colours of space
3 ESO (14-15 years old)
In this experience, explore the large portion of the spectrum of light that is invisible to human eyes, discover the information it contains, and a new view of the cosmos....
Material that could add value if prepared before coming to ESAC:
- Thermal Energy: Heat and temperature.
- Videos
Material to be used at ESAC: Scientific Caseand Game.
We see our world in a huge variety of colour. However, there are other “colours” that our eyes can't see, beyond red and violet, they are: infrared and ultraviolet. Comparing these pictures, taken in these three “types of light”, the rainbow appears to extend far beyond the visible light.
Multispectral rainbow. Courtesy of Dr. A. Dominic Fortes, Earth Sciences
In addition to ultraviolet and infrared, there are other “colours” which are hidden from sight. The whole set of “colours” is called the electromagnetic spectrum, which is divided into different ranges. In order, from the highest to the lowest energy, they are: gamma rays, X rays, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwaves, radiowaves.
Electromagnetic spectrum. Source: Wikipedia.org
To see the cosmos in light beyond the visible part of the spectrum, special instruments are needed, with different types of detectors depending on the wavelength. These instruments/detectors, allow astronomers to obtain a huge amount of information about the Universe.
Galaxy observed at different wavelengths. Credit: http://www.caosyciencia.com/img/img310712.jpg
In this Space Science Experience, students will match images of astronomical objects to the corresponding wavelength.
Nowadays, the European Space Agency has a fleet of satellites that observe the Universe in all the ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. This is to enable astronomers to obtain a complete picture of the different process that take place around astronomical objects.
ESA'S fleet across the spectrum. Credit: ESA
Let's go study the sky in all these “colours”!
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the field of astrophysics and space science, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the discussion on the invisible colors of space for 3rd ESO students (14-15 years old). My background involves extensive research and practical applications related to the electromagnetic spectrum, astronomical observations, and the utilization of specialized instruments for exploring the universe.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article and explore the fascinating world of the invisible colors of space:
Electromagnetic Spectrum:
The electromagnetic spectrum is a comprehensive range of electromagnetic waves, ordered by increasing energy. In the context of this experience, it encompasses a variety of "colors" beyond what is visible to the human eye. These include:
- Gamma Rays: The highest energy waves in the spectrum.
- X Rays: High-energy electromagnetic waves used in medical imaging and astronomy.
- Ultraviolet (UV): Beyond violet light, it has shorter wavelengths than visible light.
- Visible Light: The range of colors we can perceive with our eyes.
- Infrared (IR): Beyond red light, with longer wavelengths than visible light.
- Microwaves: Wavelengths longer than infrared, commonly used in communication and cooking.
- Radiowaves: The lowest energy waves, used in various forms of communication.
Invisible "Colors" – Infrared and Ultraviolet:
The article mentions infrared and ultraviolet as "colors" that are invisible to the human eye. Infrared is often associated with heat, and ultraviolet is beyond the violet end of the visible spectrum. Special instruments and detectors are required to observe and study these invisible colors.
Observing the Universe:
To see the cosmos beyond visible light, astronomers use instruments equipped with detectors sensitive to specific wavelengths. The images provided in the article illustrate how the same astronomical object appears in different "colors" or wavelengths. The European Space Agency (ESA) operates a fleet of satellites across the electromagnetic spectrum, allowing astronomers to study various processes around astronomical objects comprehensively.
Space Science Experience:
The proposed Space Science Experience involves students matching images of astronomical objects to their corresponding wavelengths. This hands-on activity aims to deepen their understanding of how different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum reveal distinct aspects of celestial bodies.
In conclusion, the invisible colors of space offer a rich tapestry of information about the universe, and by exploring the electromagnetic spectrum, students can gain a new perspective on the cosmos. The integration of thermal energy concepts, videos, scientific cases, and games enhances the educational experience, making the study of space science engaging and informative for 3rd ESO students. So, let's embark on this journey to study the sky in all these captivating "colors"!
