Starlight

Starlight is the visible radiation, especially the light, that is emitted by stars in the universe. It is a critical aspect of astronomy, and its study has led to many key discoveries about the universe.

Composition

Starlight is composed of photons in all frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum. This includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. The distribution of these frequencies in starlight is determined by the temperature and composition of the star.

Observation

The observation of starlight, spectroscopy, has been a crucial tool in astronomy. It allows for the determination of a star's composition, temperature, velocity, and distance. The Doppler effect observed in the starlight's spectrum allows for the measurement of a star's velocity relative to the observer.

Effects of the atmosphere

The Earth's atmosphere refracts starlight, causing stars to appear to twinkle in a phenomenon known as stellar scintillation. This effect is less pronounced the higher in the sky the star is and can be eliminated by observing from outer space.

Starlight in culture

Starlight has had a significant impact on human culture, inspiring countless works of art, literature, and music. It has also been used for practical purposes, such as navigation by the stars.

See also

• Light pollution
• Stellar classification
• Stellar evolution
• Stellar nucleosynthesis

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