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Crimean Astrophysical Observatory facts for kids

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Crimean Astrophysical Observatory
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The observatory
Location near Nauchny [de], Crimea
Coordinates
44°43′36″N 34°0′57.1″E / 44.72667°N 34.015861°E / 44.72667; 34.015861
Telescopes
BLS-1 Solar telescope
BLS-2 Solar telescope
Shain telescope 2.6-metre telescope
AZT-11 reflector
1.22-m Babelsberg telescope
AZT-8 reflector

The Crimean Astrophysical Observatory (CrAO) is a famous place in Crimea, Ukraine, where scientists study space. It's like a giant eye that helps us learn about stars, planets, and other amazing things far away in the universe.

Scientists at CrAO use powerful telescopes to watch the sky. They have discovered many minor planets, which are small objects orbiting the Sun. This observatory helps us understand our solar system and beyond.

What is an Observatory?

An observatory is a special place built for observing events on Earth or in space. Astronomical observatories, like CrAO, are designed to look at the sky. They often have large telescopes to collect light from distant objects.

Why is CrAO Important?

The Crimean Astrophysical Observatory has been a key place for astronomy for many years. It helps scientists make new discoveries about space. Its work contributes to our knowledge of the universe.

Looking at the Stars

CrAO has several different telescopes. Each telescope is designed to do a specific job. Some look at the Sun, while others study distant stars and galaxies.

Types of Telescopes at CrAO

  • Solar Telescopes: These telescopes, like BLS-1 and BLS-2, are built to study our Sun. They help scientists understand solar flares and sunspots.
  • Reflector Telescopes: Telescopes like the Shain telescope (2.6-metre), AZT-11, and AZT-8 use mirrors to gather light. They are great for observing faint objects far away in space.
  • Babelsberg Telescope: This 1.22-meter telescope is another important tool. It helps astronomers study different celestial bodies.

These powerful tools allow scientists to see things that are invisible to the naked eye. They help us explore the mysteries of the cosmos.

Discoveries at CrAO

Over the years, scientists at the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory have made many important discoveries. They have found hundreds of minor planets. These discoveries help us map our solar system.

What are Minor Planets?

Minor planets are small celestial objects that orbit the Sun. They are smaller than planets but larger than meteoroids. Asteroids are a common type of minor planet. Studying them helps us learn about the early solar system.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Observatorio Astrofísico de Crimea para niños

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