optical astronomy

noun

1. the branch of observational astronomy using telescopes to observe or photograph celestial objects in visible light.

Other Words From

• optical astronomer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of optical astronomy¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

These instruments will go far in getting China on the map where infrared and optical astronomy are concerned—they are on par with some of the “large” telescopes operated in places like Chile.

From MIT Technology Review