radio astronomy

noun

1. the branch of astronomy that utilizes extraterrestrial radiation in radio wavelengths rather than visible light for the study of the universe.

radio astronomy

noun

1. a branch of astronomy in which a radio telescope is used to detect and analyse radio signals received on earth from radio sources in space

radio astronomy

1. The study of celestial objects by measurement of the radio waves they emit. Radio astronomy has enabled the detection and study of objects such as pulsars, quasars, radio galaxies, and other objects, some of which emit considerably less radiation at other wavelengths. Radio astronomy has contributed to the discovery of cosmic background radiation and has enhanced the understanding of solar activity and the structure of galaxies.
2. See also radio telescope

Word History and Origins

Origin of radio astronomy¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

There had been a lot of radio astronomy data to suggest flat rotation curves, but because radio astronomy was very new, it was really only once you saw it with the eye that the astronomy community was convinced.

From Science News

In contrast, the best-known frequency in radio astronomy, emitted by hydrogen atoms in space, is 1,420 MHz, a wavelength of 21 centimeters.

From Science News

The procedure is relatively easy in radio astronomy, both because radio-emitting objects tend to be extremely bright, and because radio waves are relatively large and thus easy to line up.

From Quanta Magazine

This sharpness is often a key goal in astronomy, as it allows us to pinpoint individual stars in faraway galaxies or map the precise shape of a nebula, and the long wavelengths of radio astronomy offer a different way of building big telescopes.

From Quanta Magazine

The science of radio astronomy is thrilling, but the telescopes look decidedly odd to anyone accustomed to the shiny mirrored telescopes they’ve peered through.

From Quanta Magazine

He also knew of the growing importance of radio astronomy, but he hadn't known the Egyptians were in on it.

From Project Gutenberg

Radio astronomy is no longer about the stars seen through human eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

Admittedly, he didn't have much knowledge of astrophysics or radio astronomy.

From Project Gutenberg