Telescope #2

Find the exact equation for a new telescope mirror with a given light-gathering power and focal length.

Subject: Mathematics
Topics: Algebra--Quadratic Equations and Functions
Grades: 8 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can graph a quadratic function
- Can relate the coefficients of a quadratic function to their influence on the shape and position of the parabolic graph of that function

Download Teacher Guide: Telescope #2 (PDF)
Download Student Lesson: Telescope #2 (PDF)

Looking into TimeLooking into Time:

The science of optics teaches us how to make "bigger eyes", and if you want to look at something very far away, or very faint, you're going to need a really huge eye--such as the one used at Kitt Peak by astronomers studying distant galaxies.
Running time 3:29 minutes.

Watch the Movie