help

Can Radio Waves Be Converted to Something We Can “See”?

-- | May 28, 2014

Question: Is it possible to view radio waves being transmitted on Earth? Is there a device that can place them within “visible light” on the electromagnetic spectrum? I’m doing research for a photographic project. Thank you! — Shane

Answer: In many ways a radio telescope turns radio waves into something that we can “see” with our eyes, in the form of spectra and images of the radio emission from objects in our universe. In detail, that process of turning radio wave signals into “data” that astronomers can interpret involves translating the radio waves from their original form into a form that a computer or other electronic device can read and help astronomers interpret.

Jeff Mangum

Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
Linkedin

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.