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ScienceNet - Astronomy & Space Science - Observatories/ Telescopes
 

Question No.  13490 :
This month Pluto's apparent magnitude is m=14.1. Could we see it with an 11" reflector of focal length 3400mm?

The telescope's ability to reveal faint objects depends mainly upon the size of its objective. Figures given in the table below illustrate approximately how size of objective determines visibility of celestial objects:

Diameter of Objective
(inches)
Faintest Magnitude Visible
1
9
1.75
10
2.75
11
4.5
12
7
13
11
14
12.5
15

The magnitude of Pluto in year 2001 is between 13.8 and 13.9. If the sky is very dark and clear, you should be able to see Pluto with your 11-in reflector.

Question Asked By:

Name: Jacob
Age Group: 21 to 30
Occupation Type: Student
Education Level: Under Graduate

 
 

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