Gamma Ray, X-Ray and Ultraviolet Astronomy

Gamma Rays

Gamma rays are the highest energy and shortest wavelength form of electromagnetic radiation.
Gamma rays are often produced in the most violent events in the universe such as supernova explosions or the decay of radioactive material in space.
Gamma ray astronomy is used to study these high-energy phenomena, as well as other objects like pulsars and black holes.
However, because gamma rays are blocked by Earth’s atmosphere, observations must be made from high-altitude balloons or space-based telescopes.

X-rays are high-energy waves with shorter wavelengths than ultraviolet light but longer than gamma rays.
They are usually emitted by hot, high-energy sources in the universe, like neutron stars, black holes, and high-temperature gases surrounding them.
X-ray astronomy provides valuable information about these objects, their environment, and processes within them.
Like gamma rays, X-rays are absorbed by Earth’s atmosphere, so X-ray astronomy requires space-based observatories or telescopes.

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays.
UV light is produced by hot objects in the universe, including young, hot stars and galaxies with active star formation.
Ultraviolet astronomy helps us understand the life cycle of stars, the evolution of galaxies, and the large-scale structure of the universe.
Some UV radiation can be observed from Earth’s surface. However, the majority is absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and ozone layer, requiring space-based observation for the full spectrum.

Instruments like detectors and spectrometers on space-based platforms like the Hubble Space Telescope or Chandra X-ray Observatory are used in the observation of gamma rays, X-rays, and UV radiation.
Despite the insight they offer, observing these types of radiation poses challenges due to their short wavelengths and high energies. They are difficult to focus and require special mirror designs.
Also, these types of radiation are absorbed by Earth’s atmosphere, which is why space-based observatories are crucial for these astronomical observations.

Gamma ray, X-ray, and ultraviolet astronomy contribute significantly to our understanding of the universe.
They provide key insights into high-energy phenomena and processes, the life cycle of stars, the evolution of galaxies, and the large-scale picture of the universe.
While challenging to capture, these forms of radiation have revolutionised our knowledge of the cosmos.