Far-infrared astronomy

Far infrared image of the Andromeda galaxy from the Herschel Space Observatory

Far-infrared astronomy is the branch of astronomy and astrophysics that deals with objects visible in far-infrared radiation (extending from 30 μm towards submillimeter wavelengths around 450 μm).[1]

In the far-infrared, stars are not especially bright, but emission from very cold matter (140 Kelvin or less) can be observed that is not seen at shorter wavelengths. This is due to thermal radiation of interstellar dust contained in molecular clouds.[2]

These emissions are from dust in circumstellar envelopes around numerous old red giant stars. The Bolocam Galactic Plane Survey mapped the galaxy for the first time in the far-infrared.[2]

  1. ^ A. Mampaso; M. Prieto; F. Sánchez (2003). Infrared Astronomy. Cambridge University Press. pp. 189–. ISBN 978-0-521-54810-6.
  2. ^ a b "Near, Mid and Far-Infrared". Caltech Infrared Processing and Analysis Center. Archived from the original on 2012-05-29. Retrieved 2013-01-28.