Ressmeyer-Starlight for National Geographic
01 January, 1993
At the Starfire Optical Range a green copper-vapor laser and an orange sodium-wavelength laser are aimed through telescopes. Gases in specific layers of the atmosphere reflect the laser light, creating artificial stars. Leading edge technology enables scientists to examine even the most remote reaches of the universe. Distorting atmospheric effects are studied with the aid of laser beams, and computers use telescope optics to create images of unprecedented clarity.
