What Are the Different Types of Astronomical Instruments?
An astronomical instrument generally refers to a type of equipment used for the study, observation, or measurement of celestial objects. They are an important part of the science of astronomy. Astronomical instruments are usually classified in two categories. The first category includes all instruments that are used for observation, such as the telescope. The second category pertains to instruments employed for recording or standardizing the data provided by the observational instruments. Observational astronomical instruments can be used to determine the size and structure of a celestial object. They may also be employed to help calculate its distance from the Earth. Other instruments collect celestial material emitted from objects such as radiation. Radiation can help provide valuable information regarding the characteristics of these phenomena.