The image quality of most optical telescopes is limited by atmospheric refraction experienced by light as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atmospheric refraction causes the incoming light to bend, creating distortions and blurring in the image. This is a phenomenon that affects most optical telescopes, and is a major reason why astronomers often prefer to observe from locations where the atmosphere is clearer, such as high-altitude mountaintops or in space.

The Image Quality of Most Optical Telescopes Is Limited by Atmospheric