Cluster 2: Optics

Getting electrons excited by heat can cause certain materials to give off visible light when heated - like filaments in light bulbs.

Learn about telescopes that do their work high in Earth’s atmosphere and in space.

Learn about light and its properties.

Learn about reflection and refraction and meet Emily Altiere, a PhD student in physics who studies lasers.

Learn about how human vision works as well as some common types of vision problems.

Learn about the history of telescopes and the function of refracting and reflecting optical telescopes.

Learn about radio astronomy, a type of astronomy that studies objects in space using radio waves and radio telescopes.

Some astronomers are not looking for stars, planets or galaxies. They are searching for intelligent life in the universe beyond our planet.

Learn about uses of thermal imaging as a medical imaging technology.

Learn about radiography and x-rays as a form of medical imaging technology.

Learn about the history, function, uses, benefits and risks of ophthalmic imaging as a medical imaging technology.

Learn about the history, function, uses, benefits and risks of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as a medical imaging technology.