radio astronomy

American  

noun

1. the branch of astronomy that utilizes extraterrestrial radiation in radio wavelengths rather than visible light for the study of the universe.

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radio astronomy British  

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

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radio astronomy Scientific  

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

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Etymology

Origin of radio astronomy

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

radio astronomy

The Lovell Telescope has been overtaken in size by larger radio telescopes, but has continuously been modernised and remains key to the UK's radio astronomy capability.

From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026

This strategy has been highly successful in radio astronomy because radio waves have long wavelengths, making it feasible to precisely synchronize signals collected by widely spaced sensors.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 10, 2026

Research published in 2023 showed that emissions measured from dozens of satellites on the Starlink constellation exceeded their intended and allowed thresholds, interfering with the frequencies allocated to radio astronomy.

From Salon ● Apr. 4, 2025

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 ● May 2, 2024

Especially because we, new to radio astronomy, must be comparatively backward, and the transmitting civilization advanced, it makes more sense for us to listen than to send.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan