ScienceAugust 24, 2026

coronagraph

KOR-uh-nuh-graf

Definition

An instrument designed to block out the direct light of a star, allowing the much fainter light from nearby objects, such as orbiting planets, to be observed.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'corona' meaning 'crown' and the Greek 'graph' meaning 'to write or record.' It was originally invented to study the sun's outer atmosphere, or corona, by creating an artificial eclipse.

In the news

The article describes the Roman telescope's advanced coronagraph, which enables it to photograph large planets that are millions of times fainter than their host stars. This technology is a critical step toward future missions aimed at imaging Earth-like worlds.

Why NASA is adding the Nancy Grace Roman telescope to its fleet

Read the full article ↗

Mashable

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