Mmastodon SciencePhysics first seen 20 h ago, last 8 h ago, peak #4
Astronomers debate how to measure radio energy
Original: This question confounds every radio and radar astronomer, because we always measure things in terms of energy per Hz (or
Radio and radar astronomers say they habitually measure signals in terms of energy per hertz, whether per kHz, MHz or GHz, a convention that continues to puzzle people encountering it. The discussion, sparked by science writer Dan Falk, also touches on infrared astronomers who instead use inverse centimeters, a practice some radio astronomers find confusing. The exchange highlights a long-standing divide in units across astronomy subfields.
Why now: Scientists are discussing the inconsistent unit conventions used across different astronomy disciplines.
Dan Falkradio astronomyradar astronomyinfrared astronomy
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Evidence
- This question confounds every radio and radar astronomer, because we always measure things in terms of energy per Hz (or per kHz or MHz or GHz) of spectrum. Although the infrared astronomers sometimes insist on doing things in inverse centimeters. That confuses me. QT Dan Falk… · michael_w_busch@mastodon.online · 1
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