ScienceAugust 19, 2026

spectroscopic

spek-truh-SKOP-ik

Definition

Relating to the study of the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation to determine the chemical or structural properties of an object.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'spectrum' (appearance/image) and the Greek 'skopein' (to look at), it evolved in the 19th century to describe the analysis of light spectra to investigate the composition of substances.

In the news

In the article, spectroscopic images were used to identify buried craters on Deimos that were not visible to the naked eye, helping researchers verify their impact simulations.

Hera's Mars flyby guided impact study of Deimos moon

Read the full article ↗

European Space Agency

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