Knowledge Base

Answers and Guides

What Is a Coronagraph and How Does It Reveal Exoplanets and Faint Objects?

A coronagraph is an instrument that blocks a star's light so fainter objects near it become visible. It works by placing an occul…

What Is a Camera in Space Astronomy and How Do Hubble and Webb Capture Images?

A camera in space astronomy is an instrument that records light collected by a telescope so it can be turned into an image or mea…

What Is a Black Hole and How Can You Follow Real Black Hole Research?

A black hole is a region of space where matter is packed so densely that nothing—not even light—can escape once it crosses a boun…

What Is Astrophysics and How Do You Follow Real Space Telescope Research?

Astrophysics is the branch of physics that explains what astronomical objects are, how they form, and how they behave — applying …

What Is SpaceEngine and What Can You Explore in Its Virtual Universe?

SpaceEngine is a realistic virtual universe simulator you run on your computer. It is built for people who want to travel through…

What Is a Telescope and How Do You Choose One for Night-Sky Viewing?

A telescope is an optical instrument that collects light from distant objects and brings it to a focus so your eye can see more d…

What Is NASA GMAO? Global Modeling and Assimilation Data Explained

NASA's Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) is the part of NASA's Earth science effort that builds global models of the…

How Does Research Work at a Marine Science Center Like Hatfield?

Research at the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) works through a shared coastal campus model: Oregon State University operat…

What Is Astronomy and How Do You Read Astronomy Research News?

Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole — planets, stars, galaxies, b…