What are Radio Telescopes?

A radio telescope is a form of radio receiver used in astronomy. Distant stars and planets are observed with the help of a telescope. Stars give out light radiation. Some part of this radiation is in form of radio waves. There are special radio receivers placed by scientists on the Earth which receive these radio waves. These waves are collected and magnified by these receivers called radio telescopes. A radio telescope has two main parts: an antenna and a radio receiver. A radio telescope has a metal dish (an antenna) mounted on a movable stand. In the centre of the metal dish is the receiver. This receiver collects the radio waves, amplifies them and directs them towards a loudspeaker. This device helps astronomers to study and explore the universe.