Like the gamma ray detector, the AXAF is designed to image
X-ray sources in space that cannot be seen from the earth's surface. X rays
can be seen from stars, planetary nebulae, novas, and supernovas. Once X-ray
sources have been detected, optical telescopes can be aimed at these sources
for observation and imaging at other wavelengths. An X-ray image and an
X-ray movie of the sun are included in this lesson plan. These images have
been processed so they can be presented as visible light. The brighter parts
of the X-ray images are the shorter wavelength X rays. Visit the
solar views
section to view these images.
©1997 The
Exploratorium
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