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Home , Electromagnetic spectrum, Spectrum, Visible spectrum

National Aeronautics and Administration

The Electromagnetic

The we can see with our eyes represents only a very small portion of the continuous range of electromagnetic that form the electro- magnetic spectrum. On one end of the spectrum are waves, with that can be as large as mountains. On the other end of the spectrum are gamma rays, with wavelengths as small as atomic nuclei. is a measure of the number of crests passing by a given point per second (or ). Shorter wavelengths have higher and higher energies than longer wavelengths.

Although our eyes can see only visible light, astronomers use all regions of the to study the . Each type of electromagnetic energy provides different clues about the properties of celestial objects. Scientists build devices that can detect different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Computer image-processing techniques then code the light into pictures that we can see.

Image:Image: TheThe WhirlpoolWhirlpool GalaxyGalaxy inin visiblevisible light,light, asas seenseen byby thethe HubbleHubble SpaceSpace .Telescope.

Frequency: 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 (in hertz) 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

Lower frequencies Higher frequencies RadioRadio MicrowaveMicrowave InfraredInfrared UltravioletUltraviolet X-RayX-Ray GammaGamma RayRay Longer wavelengths Shorter wavelengths

Wavelength: 10 4 10 2 1 10-2 10-4 10-6 10-8 10-10 10-12 10-14 (in meters) VisibleVisible 1

Wavelength is the size of: Mountains Buildings Humans Houseflies Pinpoints Bacteria Molecules Atomic Nuclei

The Whirlpool at different wavelengths

Scientists use a variety of in space and on the ground to measure the full range of electromagnetic waves emitted by celestial objects. Radio Visible X-Ray The Classroom Activities To use an overhead projector, place two pieces of 8-inch spectrum appears to have boundaries. Asking if plastic, 12" x 12", 2-4 mil thick Electromagnetic This poster contains three classroom activities The Visible Invisible Light Safety Issues by 10-inch dark paper on the projector to create a “slit” there is anything beyond the and ends of clear plastic baggie, 1 gallon size designed to introduce middle and high school about 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) wide on the base plate the spectrum introduces the notion of “non-visible” students (grades 6–12) to different portions of the Spectrum Sources and wax paper, 12" X 12" We advise against incandescent black light bulbs. of the projector. Turn on the projector lamp and focus electromagnetic energy. is sensitive Spectrum electromagnetic spectrum, including those used If that type of bulb is the only one available, be Target Grade Levels: 6–12 the “slit” on a wall or screen. Place the diffraction to the ultraviolet energy beyond the violet light; Detectors by Origins missions. Suggested science standards, For the stations: aware that they can become very hot, so caution grating (about 4 or 5 inches square) in front of the upper it . And, skin senses the infrared energy Overview vocabulary, and science background information are Target Grade Levels: 6–12 students not to touch the bulb. And although provided to facilitate lesson planning. The activities Purpose (head) of the overhead, and rotate the grating until beyond the red light as heat. Demonstration Station normal fluorescent black are considered the spectrum appears on either side of the projected slit can be done separately or together. To introduce the electromagnetic spectrum. Visible Light completely safe, please advise students not to The light that we see with our eyes – visible In , scientists use the properties on the wall or screen. 2. How Do Filters Work? Purpose Understanding electromagnetic energy often begins SOURCE: flashlight (with batteries) stare directly into the fluorescent bulbs for light – represents only a small portion of the of light to learn about celestial objects that The provides instructions DETECTOR: plain white paper 8 1/2" X 11" with studying the visible spectrum. Visible light Transparent, colored objects transmit only a At classroom stations, students gain direct experi- extended periods or from close range. Shorter electromagnetic spectrum. Developing the tech- are too far away to visit. Each portion of the for creating a visible spectrum with an overhead To use a slide projector, create a 35-millimeter slide that is accessible and emphasized in most textbooks. portion of the visible spectrum. Place common ence with different sources of electromagnetic energy Radio (FM) wavelength black lights used in mineral explora- nology to detect and use other portions of the electromagnetic spectrum provides unique projector. Introduce the electromagnetic spectrum has a clear “slit” about 0.5 centimeters (1/4 inch) wide by Students bring personal observations of the transparent objects like sunglasses, colored report — most of which is not visible to the . SOURCE: radio station tion or to sterilize surfaces should NOT be used. electromagnetic spectrum – the “invisible” light clues about the nature of our universe. The by showing students that white light is composed using unexposed film, or black electrical tape in a slide DETECTOR: small battery-operated FM radio. spectrum from the natural world: ; ; covers and plastic wrappers on the “slit” of the Each station will have a source of electromagnetic They can be dangerous to eyes and skin and can that our eyes cannot see – has had a tremendous missions and research programs in NASA’s of a of . Students can draw the mount. Turn on the projector and focus the “slit” on the Aluminum foil (enough to completely cover ; and other commercial overhead projector (or into the beam from the slide energy, possible “detectors,” and sheets of material burn them much like a severe . impact on our daily lives. When you listen to a Astronomical Search for Origins program visible spectrum and explore how common objects wall or screen. The diffraction grating is placed in front the radio, its , and any headphones). items decorated with refractive materials (pencils, projector) to discover how they “filter” light. The to test as potential “” or “shields” for radio, heat your food in a oven, use a use innovative technologies to observe the “filter” light. Use these activities to engage students’ of the lens. Again, rotate to produce the spectrum on [For large classes, set up two of each of the numbered signs, etc.). Begin with these observations to engage filters used for theatrical are designed to the electromagnetic energy. Detecting and blocking remote control, or have an X-ray taken, you are universe at a variety of wavelengths (ultra- interest in electromagnetic energy. students' about light and, more broadly, the wall. stations.] selectively transmit color, and offer a more dramatic (“shielding”) various forms of electromagnetic Procedure using “invisible” light. violet, visible, and infrared) in search of the electromagnetic energy. Station 1 demonstration of how light is filtered. Viewing energy helps students realize there are forms of answers to two enduring human questions: The Herschel Infrared Experiment With either type of projector, the spectrum will appear on Infrared Light objects in different regions of the electromagnetic electromag-netic energy that we cannot see. Demonstration – Defining Sources, helps students to expand their knowledge of the Materials both sides of the “slit” You can move the projector to place SOURCE: infrared light (heat lamp) Where did we come from? spectrum through the use of filters and different DETECTOR: student’s hand Detectors, Transmitters, and Shields electromagnetic spectrum. Students will discover the spectrum at the best place for students to observe. Note: X-rays and gamma rays are not included as Overhead projector; diffraction grating*; kinds of telescopes gives astronomers more informa- Are we alone? the “invisible” light that lies just beyond the red Note that this works best in a darkened room. part of this classroom activity for several reasons, Station 2 1. Sources. Shine the flashlight from the demon- and two pieces of 8" X 10" dark paper. tion about the universe. end of the visible spectrum – infrared light. Use most importantly because they are harmful if not Infrared Light stration station at students. Say, “This flashlight is a OR this as an outdoor class laboratory activity, a Activities used properly. SOURCE: VCR/TV remote control source of light.” Ask, “What are some other sources Slide projector; diffraction grating*; one 35-mil- *Note on Diffraction Gratings and Prisms: student learning station, a demonstration, or as DETECTOR: TV monitor or other device triggered of light energy that we can see?” Explain that while Vocabulary limeter slide mount; and unexposed film or black 1. The Colors of the Visible Spectrum Diffraction gratings produce a bright, broad visible by remote part of a science fair project. Materials most objects reflect light, they are not considered to electrical tape. spectrum that students find easier to observe. Electromagnetic energy: A form of energy that travels through space as vibrations of electric and Students use color pencils or crayons to draw and label Holographic gratings perform best. A placed Station 3 be the source of that light. Sources of light generate Invisible Light Sources and Detectors Color pencils or crayons; common transparent For the class: Ultraviolet Light the spectrum. They may record more or fewer colors in a light beam of a slide projector will also produce and emit the light themselves. magnetic fields; also called or light. gives students direct experience with radio, infrared, objects like sunglasses; colored report covers; and SOURCE: black light — fluorescent than the classic “ROY G BIV” (red, , , a visible spectrum, but it will likely be fainter, with Activity worksheets for each student visible, and ultraviolet waves. Students will identify plastic wrappers. DETECTORS: sheet of “bright” paper; styrofoam , , violet) scheme. (Many people do not the colors dispersed in a narrow band. 3-6 station number signs 2. Detectors. Ask, “Can you tell me where there Frequency: Describes the number of wave crests passing by a fixed point in a given time period sources of visible and “invisible” forms of light in peanuts; detergent; tonic water containing quinine; distinguish dark blue [indigo] from violet.) The visible are light detectors in the room?” [The students’ (usually one second). Frequency is measured in hertz (Hz). our everyday lives, and identify ways to detect and 3-6 sets of shields/transmitters in a manila folder or glow-in-the-dark ; ultraviolet beads.* Projecting the Visible envelope, one for each station, plus one additional eyes!—If necessary give them the hint that some to block these types of light. Teachers can use these set for the demonstration station. Each set has the light detectors are a couple of centimeters below their Spiral galaxy Spectrum : A large pinwheel-shaped system of stars, dust, and gas . concepts to discuss how we protect ourselves from Going Further following materials: eyebrows!] Then ask, “Are there other light detectors harmful forms of light. *Note: Black light sources are often found in party The visible spectrum can be boldly projected with blank overhead transparency that you know of?” [, camcorders...] Explain Wave: A vibration in a medium or in space that transfers energy from one place to another. a diffraction grating or, less optimally, a prism* These activities were adapted from Active Astronomy: Classroom Activities for Learning About Infrared shops or entertainment/theater catalogs. Ultraviolet that the white paper at the demonstration station aluminum foil, 12" X 12" waves are vibrations of air. Light waves are vibrations of electric and magnetic fields. Visit the NASA Space Science Education Resource using an overhead projector or a slide projector as a Astronomy. Active Astronomy offers hands-on activities and demonstrations that focus on sensing beads are available from many science education reflects visible light so that our eyes can detect it. Directory (http://teachspacescience.org) or the light source. Both projectors produce a full spectrum infrared energy as a way of exploring “invisible” light. plain white paper, 8 1/2" X 11" suppliers. The white beads that turn red in ultraviolet We can call the white paper a “detector,” but our Origins Education Forum website (http://origins. light are preferred. Wavelength: The distance between two wave crests, which is the same as the distance between of white light. (Note: video projectors do not Download Active Astronomy on the Web at: http://www.sofia.usra.edu/Edu/materials/edu_materials.html. cloth, 12" X 12" eyes are the real detectors. stsci.edu) to find additional education resources produce a full spectrum.) two troughs. developed by NASA’s Origins missions and programs. The Visible Spectrum — page 1 of 1 Invisible Light Sources and Detectors — page 1 of 3

Background Information Herschel Infrared Herschel realized that there must be another type of light Spectrum 3. Transmitters and Shields. Explain that some To show how invisible energy can be blocked, com- • What did you find out? beyond the red, which we cannot see. This type of light materials let light through and are called transmitters pletely wrap the radio and its antenna in aluminum • What was the source? 1. What is the electromagnetic spectrum? 4. Why do we put telescopes in space? Box Experiment became known as infrared. Infra is derived from the Latin of light. Other materials do not let light through; foil or place it in a box completely lined with • What was the detector? The electromagnetic spectrum consists of all the Each image provides important clues about the they block the light, and can be called shields. Use aluminum foil (including the lid). [Headphones and Astronomers put telescopes in space to study word for “below.” Although the procedure for this activity • What blocked the source? different wavelengths of electromagnetic energy, electromagnetic energy that does not reach the properties of this system. The visible-light image Target Grade Levels: 6–12 is slightly different than Herschel's original experiment, the test shields at the demonstration station to show headphone cords, if present, also should be wrapped in • What let the invisible light through? including radio waves, , infrared light, visible Earth’s surface. Each type of electromagnetic energy shows sweeping spiral arms, clusters of young you should obtain similar results. how different objects/materials can either transmit, foil since headphone cords often contain an antenna.] light, ultraviolet light, X-rays, and gamma rays. The stars, and clouds of molecular gas and dust. Young Purpose Sheet of partially transmit, or block visible light. For each test The radio waves from the radio station should now be • Did anything surprise you? provides important clues about the properties of Prism paper only region in the entire electromagnetic spectrum that celestial objects. We also put telescopes in space to stars dominate the appearance of the ultraviolet Materials shield listed in the Visible Light worksheet, ask the shielded (blocked), and static will be heard. The static image, which provides a unique view of the spiral To perform a version of the experiment of 1800, our eyes can detect is the visible region. Although the study visible light, even though visible light passes class to predict whether the material will transmit/ indicates that the radio is still working, and reinforces 7. Summarize the class experiences on a large structure. The X-ray image shows clouds of multi- in which a form of electromagnetic energy other Figure 2 wavelength ranges for forms of light other than visible through the Earth’s atmosphere. Turbulence in our One prism (plastic prisms do not work well for this partially transmit (T) visible light or block/shield the fact that the — the radio energy — has paper or the overhead so students can view the con- million-degree gas and point-like objects associated than visible light was discovered by the famous are not precisely defined, typical wavelength ranges are atmosphere blurs the images that scientists obtain experiment); three alcohol thermometers; black paint (S) visible light, and to record their predictions on been blocked. Tell the class that the other materials clusions and unresolved questions. Help familiarize with black holes and neutron stars. Longer infrared astronomer Sir Frederick . its rotation about the prism's long axis (as shown as follows: gamma rays, less than 0.001 nanometers; with telescopes on the ground. By placing telescopes or a permanent black marker; scissors or a prism stand; the worksheet. Insert each material in the flashlight at the demonstration station will not block the radio them with the names for each type of invisible light wavelengths track warm dust heated by recent in Figure 3). The length of the notch should be X-rays, 0.001 to 10 nanometers; ultraviolet light, 10 to in space, above the Earth’s atmosphere, scientists can a cardboard box (a photocopier paper box works fine); beam and have students record the observed results. waves. and the electromagnetic spectrum by looking at the formation. The radio image maps the locations Background slightly shorter than the length of the prism. The 400 nanometers; visible light, 400 to 700 nanometers; obtain a much sharper view of the universe. and one blank sheet of white paper. Completing the Visible Light worksheet in this front of the poster. infrared light, 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter; and of star-forming regions and supernova remnants notch should be slightly deeper than the prism’s fashion will prepare students for the experiments Student Experiment and Discussion Herschel discovered the existence of infrared light radio waves, longer than 1 millimeter. The shortest produced by the deaths of massive stars. width. Next, slide the prism into the notch cut with invisible light. 5. How do we detect “invisible” forms by passing through a glass prism. His Preparation 5. Explain that the stations set up around the room 8. Consider other invisible sources. radio waves (wavelengths between 1 millimeter and from the box and rotate the prism until the widest of light? experiment is similar to the one described here. As each have a source of energy, a detector of that energy, about 30 centimeters) are also referred to as microwaves. 7. How do scientists use the You will need to blacken the thermometer bulbs to make possible spectrum appears on a shaded portion of a. “What kind of invisible energy do we use to sunlight passed through the prism, it was and a set of materials (test shields) to see which (One nanometer equals one-billionth of a meter.) Scientists build electronic devices that are sensitive electromagnetic spectrum to the experiment work effectively. One way to do this is to the white sheet of paper at the bottom of the box. cook with?” [microwaves and infrared] Explain to the light our eyes cannot see. Then, so that we dispersed into a rainbow of colors called a materials transmit or block the invisible energy. learn about the universe? paint the bulbs with black paint, covering each bulb with The -facing side of the box may have to be ??? that water is especially good at absorbing micro- can visualize these regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. A spectrum contains all of the visible about the same amount of paint. Alternatively, you can elevated (tilted up) to produce a sufficiently wide waves, so any food containing water (most food) 2. What is the relationship between a. Have students identify the Source and Detector spectrum, computer image-processing techniques The images of the Whirlpool Galaxy on the front colors that make up sunlight. also blacken the bulbs using a permanent black marker. spectrum. After the prism is secured in the notch, will be efficiently heated in a . wavelength, frequency, and energy? of the poster show how combining information at each station (as listed in the “Stations” section of translate the “invisible” light into pictures that we (Note: the painted bulbs tend to produce better results.) place the thermometers in the shade and record the Source Herschel was interested in measuring the amount the Materials list above). The equals the frequency times the can see. from each region of the electromagnetic spectrum The bulbs of the thermometers are blackened in order to ambient air temperature. Then place the thermom- Detector b. X-rays. If possible, show the class an X-ray of heat in each color and used thermometers with wavelength. This means that the frequency is equal to leads to a more complete understanding of a absorb heat better. After the paint or marker ink has dried, eters in the spectrum so that one of the bulbs is in image, and ask, “Where did the rays come from?” celestial object. In addition to taking images blackened bulbs to measure the various color tem- Test Shield b. Divide the class into groups. Tell students they [an X-ray machine] “When you get a dental the speed of light divided by the wavelength. Because 6. What are the different images of the tape the thermometers together so that they line up the blue region, another is in the yellow region, and will have about 7–10 minutes per station. Explain of celestial objects, scientists also use devices peratures. He noticed that the temperature increased X-ray, they put a lead shield on you. Why?” [to all electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed Whirlpool Galaxy on the front of the as in Figure 1. the third is just beyond the (visible) red region that students will use the procedure demonstrated called spectrographs to disperse, or separate, the from the blue to the red part of the visible spectrum. protect you from any dangerous effects associ- (300,000,000 meters per second) in the vacuum of poster? (as in Figure 1). 4. Exploring Invisible Light. Tell the class that, with visible light to determine which materials empty space, the shorter the wavelength is, the higher light from celestial objects into its component Herschel then placed a thermometer just beyond the ated with the X-rays] “Why don’t they use an Procedure in addition to the visible light energy they can transmit/partially transmit or shield (block) aluminum foil shield?” [Aluminum foil will not the frequency. The energy of a wave is directly pro- The upper image, which was obtained by the wavelengths. Features in the resulting spectrum red part of the spectrum in a region where there was see in the room, there is a lot of invisible energy invisible light. Ask students to record their predic- block X-rays.] “They had you bite on something. Hubble , is a visible-light image of help astronomers to measure an object’s properties, no visible light. He found that the temperature was portional to its frequency, but inversely proportional to The experiment should be conducted outdoors on a sunny too. For example, the radio at the demonstration tions and results on the Invisible Light worksheet. What was it?” [It holds the film (which detects the Whirlpool Galaxy. This detailed image helps such as its temperature, composition, density, and even higher! When a given time period is up, have students go its wavelength. In other words, the greater the energy, day. Variable conditions such as patchy cumulus Prism station detects radio waves from a radio station. the X-rays).] “What was between the X-ray source astronomers to study the structure and star-forming motion. to the station with the next highest number, unless the larger the frequency and the shorter (smaller) the clouds or heavy haze will diminish your results. The Detail [With , it is easy for confusion to arise about and the film?” [teeth] processes of this spiral galaxy. they are already on the highest number, in which wavelength. Short wavelengths are more energetic than setup for the experiment is depicted in Figure 2. Begin the energy source. In addition to the radio waves long wavelengths. Scientists in NASA’s Astronomical Search for case they should go to Station 1. c. Let students know that even though people by placing the white sheet of paper flat in the bottom of Box emitted by the radio station, the radio is powered by The visible-light image in the lower portion of Origins program will image stars and can’t see invisible waves, some animals can. We Thermometers the cardboard box. The next step requires you to carefully a battery, and there is also sound energy. Emphasize 6. Discussion of results. the poster shows a wider view of the same Hubble at ultraviolet, visible, and infrared wavelengths. placed in spectrum Ask questions about each can’t see infrared rays, but snakes can. We can’t 3. Do all types of electromagnetic energy attach the glass prism near the top (Sun-facing) edge of that it is the radio waves we are concerned with Space Telescope image, revealing a smaller, nearby We will also look for characteristic patterns of station, such as the ones below. Each group will report see ultraviolet waves, but and some other reach the Earth’s surface? the box. here.] Tune a small battery-operated radio to an FM companion galaxy. Four additional images, obtained light, or spectral “fingerprints,” emitted by atoms Prism their results to the class. Encourage other groups to insects can. Can we see radio waves? [No] Our atmosphere blocks out harmful energy like X-rays, or news station. ask questions of the reporting group, and be sure to with various space-based and ground-based and molecules to measure elements in the early If you do not have a prism stand (available from science gamma rays and most ultraviolet rays. It also blocks out Just ask students in the reporting group for any questions telescopes, measure the “invisible” light emitted by universe and to search for signatures of life. supply stores), the easiest way to mount the prism is to most infrared energy, as well as very low energy radio the two galaxies. To visualize the “invisible” light, beyond they still have. Combining the light from multiple telescopes Blue Yellow red cut out a notch from the top edge of the box. The cutout waves. Visible light, most radio waves, some ultraviolet scientists have used computer image-processing will allow us to achieve the capabilities needed notch should hold the prism snugly, while also permitting Figure 3 rays, small wavelength ranges of infrared light, and techniques to translate the various electromagnetic to identify and study terrestrial planets orbiting some microwaves pass through the atmosphere. energies into pictures we can see. nearby stars. Figure 1 Herschel Infrared Experiment — page 1 of 2 Invisible Light Sources and Detectors — page 2 of 3

What is the Astronomical Search for Origins? National Standards Recent discoveries have given us a vastly expanded sense of Code: T = It will take about five minutes for the temperatures Data/Observations: Light Sources, Detectors, and Shields Worksheet the universe and our place in it. We have measured the glow Each activity can be used to support the following National Science Education Standards to reach their final values. Record the thermometer S = Shield of the “Big Bang” – the cosmic event that gave birth to the (National Academy Press, 1996): temperatures in each of the three regions of the Test Shield universe – and observed distant galaxies. We have captured Thermometer #1 Thermometer #2 Thermometer #3 spectrum: blue, yellow, and “just beyond” the Temperature snapshots of newborn stars and discovered planets around Grades 5–8: Physical Science: Content Standard B: Transfer of Energy: “The sun is a major Visible red. Do not remove the thermometers from the in the shade Clear Black Aluminum Paper Cloth Wax Plastic (other) other stars. We now know that liquid water once flowed on source of energy for changes on the earth's surface. The sun loses energy by emitting light. A Light spectrum or block the spectrum while reading the plastic plastic foil paper bag the surface of Mars and may still exist below the icy crust of tiny fraction of that light reaches the earth, transferring energy from the sun to the earth. The temperatures. sun's energy arrives as light with a range of wavelengths, consisting of visible light, infrared, Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Jupiter’s moon Europa. Life on Earth has been traced back Flashlight nearly 4 billion years and found thriving in extreme environ- and ultraviolet radiation.” Temperature Thermometer #1 Thermometer #2 Thermometer #3 ments, from Antarctic rocks to boiling hot springs. We appear Questions in the spectrum (blue) (yellow) (just beyond red) (Visible light) Grades 9–12: Result Result Result Result Result Result Result Result to be on the brink of answering some fundamental questions: Physical Science: Content Standard B: Interactions of Energy and : What did you notice about your temperature Where do we come from? Are we alone? The missions and “Electromagnetic waves result when a charged object is accelerated or decelerated. readings? Did you see any trends? Where was the After 1 minute Electromagnetic waves include radio waves (the longest wavelength), microwaves, infrared research programs comprising NASA’s Astronomical Search highest temperature? What do you think exists just Test Shield radiation (radiant heat), visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. for Origins program seek to answer these questions. The beyond the red part of the spectrum? Discuss any After 2 minutes Invisible energy of electromagnetic waves is carried in packets whose is inversely proportional other observations or problems. Clear Black Aluminum Paper Cloth Wax Plastic (other) to the wavelength.” Light plastic plastic foil paper bag The Origins Missions include: Remarks to the teacher After 3 minutes Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Black light The Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer fuse.pha.jhu.edu Ask students to answer the above questions. The temperatures of the colors should increase from After 4 minutes (Ultraviolet) Image Credits The amazing-space.stsci.edu the blue to the red part of the spectrum. The highest Result Result Result Result Result Result Result Result temperature should be just beyond the red portion of Multiwavelength images of the Whirlpool Galaxy: After 5 minutes ce Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction The James Webb Space Telescope jwstsite.stsci.edu Radio image – National , NRAO/AUI/NSF; the visible light spectrum. This is the infrared region Heat lamp of the spectrum. (Infrared) The Kepler Mission kepler.nasa.gov Infrared image – Spitzer Space Telescope, NASA/JPL-Caltech/R. Kennicutt (Univ. of Arizona); Herschel's experiment was important not only Result Result Result Result Result Result Result Result The NASA Astrobiology Institute nai.arc.nasa.gov Light Sour because it led to the discovery of infrared light, but Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Prediction Visible image – Hubble Space Telescope, NASA, ESA, S. Beckwith (STScI), also because it was the first time someone showed Remote The Navigator Program* planetquest.jpl.nasa.gov and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA); that there were forms of light that we cannot see control The Spitzer Space Telescope spitzer.caltech.edu with our eyes. As we now know, there are many (Infrared) Ultraviolet image – Galaxy Evolution Explorer, NASA/JPL-Caltech; other types of electromagnetic energy (“light”) Result Result Result Result Result Result Result Result The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy www.sofia.usra.edu that the human eye cannot see (including X-rays, X-ray image – Chandra X-Ray Observatory, ultraviolet rays and radio waves). © 2002 by The Regents of the University of California-LHS GEMS: Invisible Universe MAY BE DUPLICATED FOR CLASSROOM OR WORKSHOP USE. NASA/CXC/UMd./A.Wilson et al. The Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer wise.ssl.berkeley.edu You can also ask the students to measure the tem- Going Further perature of other areas of the spectrum, including *The Navigator missions include: the Keck Interferometer, the Large Binocular Poster Credits: About the Activity This poster is a collaborative product of the missions and staff comprising the the area just beyond the visible blue. Also, try Telescope Interferometer, the Space Interferometry Mission and the Terrestrial Planet Finder. Origins Education Forum. The Origins Education Forum is an association of the education and For more activities and further information on the Herschel infrared experiment, see: public outreach leads of NASA’s Astronomical Search for Origins missions: the Hubble Space the experiment during different times of the day. This activity is adapted from The Invisible Universe, a teacher’s guide in the Great Explorations Telescope, the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer, the Spitzer Space Telescope, the Stratospheric The temperature differences between the colors http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/cosmic_classroom/classroom_activities/herschel_experiment.html. in Math and Science (GEMS) series, available from Lawrence Hall of Science, (510) 642-7771. Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, the Kepler mission, the may change, but the relative comparisons will E-mail: [email protected]. On the Web: http://www.lhsgems.org. Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer, the James Webb Space remain valid. Telescope, the Navigator program, and the NASA Astrobiology Institute. The Forum is headquartered at the Space Telescope The Invisible Universe was created with support from NASA’s Swift Gamma-ray Burst mission. National Aeronautics and Space Administration Science Institute, operated for NASA by the Association of For more information, see http://swift.sonoma.edu. Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). Poster www.nasa.gov illustrations and design by Stephanie Smith (STScI). Herschel Infrared Experiment — page 2 of 2 Invisible Light Sources and Detectors — page 3 of 3

NW-2002-5-032-GSFC • STScI- P-01-02