What Is A Reticle Eyepiece? (Explained!?)

A reticle is a grid or pattern of fine lines built into the focal plane of an eyepiece lens for optical tools and instruments. The reticle eyepiece enables viewers to obtain measurement references or pinpoint objects observed through telescopic sights, optical microscopes, firearm sights etc… In modern devices, a digital image superimposed on a screen or eyepiece may … Read more

Could Jupiter Become A Star? (Only If…!?)

Jupiter cannot become a star independently because it currently lacks sufficient mass. However, if Jupiter were to accrue enough mass by means of other objects colliding with it, it has the potential to become one.  How Would Jupiter Become A Star? A star is defined as something with enough mass that the gravitational pressure of … Read more

What Is The Flattest Planet? (Answered!)

Saturn is the flattest planet in our solar system, with an equatorial diameter 10.7% thicker than its polar diameter. Outside our solar system, the dwarf planet Haumea is flatter still, with an equatorial diameter along its long axis double the size of its shortest axis. While all planets are roughly spherical by definition, relative flatness varies … Read more

Spiral Galaxy vs Elliptical Galaxy (How Are They Different?)

Astronomers classify galaxies in three main categories – elliptical, spiral and irregular – with spiral and elliptical galaxies being those most observed to date. Both types of galaxy possess halos extending beyond their visible portions and both are thought to contain a supermassive black hole at their centre. Beyond shape, spiral and elliptical galaxies differ … Read more

What Is A Ramsden Eyepiece? (The Pros And Cons)

A Ramsden eyepiece is the simplest example of an eyepiece for a high quality optical instrument, containing two identical plano-convex lenses. The Ramsden eyepiece is one of several eyepiece options when a single simple magnifying lens is inadequate due to aberrations. It  is particularly common in instruments which have a scale or micrometer wires. If … Read more

What Are The Main Constituents Of The Jovian Planets?

Jovian planets are predominantly composed of hydrogen (80-90%) and helium (10-20%), with small, dense cores relative to massive layers of atmospheric gas. They contain small amounts of methane, ammonia and water vapor with varying traces of heavier elements such as carbon, oxygen, sulfur and phosphorus.  Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are our solar system’s jovian … Read more