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

Free from exposure to Earth and other interference, the moon’s somewhat mysterious far side is ideal for radio astronomy and other scientific work.

From Seattle Times

Readhead, who had paused his studies of CSOs to delve into different problems in radio astronomy, decided it was time to revisit the topic.

From Science Daily

A radio astronomy devotee, he fills his spare time working on radio wave projects in a room littered with instruments and parts.

From Scientific American

The frequency band used by Starlink is adjacent to a band reserved for radio astronomy and any spillover could impact observations.

From Science Magazine

Normal radio astronomy is passive, and China has the world’s largest dish of this type, the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope.

From Science Magazine