Helpful Formulae
Diffraction of Light
θ = 1.22λ/D
Where:
- λ is the wavelength of light in nanometers (nm)
- D is the aperture of the telescope in millimeters (mm)
- θ is the smallest angle resolvable in arcseconds (")
Dawes' Limit
Aperture in Millimeters R = 116/D
Aperture in Inches R = 4.56/D
Where:
- D is the aperture in specified units
- R is the resulting angle in arcseconds
