The largest observatory complex in the world is on Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain on Earth. What are some factors astronomers consider when selecting an observatory site? Don't forget practical ones. Should astronomers, for example, consider building an observatory on Denali (Mount McKinley) or Mount Everest?

Question

Physics

Samara Bray

20 January, 01:54

The largest observatory complex in the world is on Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain on Earth. What are some factors astronomers consider when selecting an observatory site? Don't forget practical ones. Should astronomers, for example, consider building an observatory on Denali (Mount McKinley) or Mount Everest?

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

David Sexton · Answer 1

Light Pollution, Weather, and Accesibility ... No, Mount Everest is very difficult to access.

Explanation:

The three main factors that the astronomers need to consider for building an observatory are Light Pollution, Weather, and Accesibility. Both Light Pollution and Weather can greatly affect what the observatory will be able to do, while accessibility makes if very difficult the obsevatory to be built and/or travelled to. Mauna Kea ha no light pollution and can be easily accessed compared to Mount Everest thus making it better.