Topics on the Mind

March 11, 2005

Gravitational Lensing

In my search for information on the theory of relativity, I came across a new idea called gravitational lensing. These topics are interconnected in that gravitational lensing deals with the way light bends around celestial objects, affecting the images we see from earth.

Adaptive Optics

I became interested in adaptive optics while researching how telescopes work. Once I saw pictures of telescopes using adaptive optics, I fell in love with thier beautiful structure and capablities. They make the images of space we see much more precise than a normal telescopes can, using multiple adjustable mirrors.

The Theory of Relativity

The theory of relativity is the reason I originally entered the field of phyiscs. I am fascinated by the way light, time, and space are all connected. I admire the work of Einsten and his passion to created a theory uniting strong force, weak force, gravity, and electromagnetism, into a theory of everything.

Liquid Mirror Telescopes

Liquid mirror telescopes are a whole different kind of telescope all together using liquid mercury as a mirror. These are incredibly important to modern day astronomy in the fact they cost a fraction of the amount of a regular telescope. I find this field promising and full of potential, but i can see it to be frustrating. In order to make one of them work you cannot have a single vibration around you due to the fact the liquid will ripple and distort the image.

Supernova Explosions

I find supernovas interesting by the way all the heavy elements are produced in the high temperature and pressure of the explosion. All the elements here on Earth were once produced in the stars. I want to take my interest in the chemical workings of this process and learn about the optical side of it.

Maxwell's Equations Relative to Light

I know how Maxwell's four equations relate to electric and magnetic fields, but I learned that together they make light. I want to learn how it all works and I will update as I learn.
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