"Spikes" seen in images of stars are caused by ______________.
A) diffraction from the telescope support structures
B) dispersion from the telescope's primary lens
C) deflection from the inner surfaces of the telescope
D) disruption from nearby light sources

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Spikes in star images are caused by diffraction from the support structures (such as the spider vanes) that hold the telescope's secondary mirror in place.

"Spikes" Seen in Images of Stars Are Caused by ______________