Enter the wavelength and the diameter of the telescope into the calculator to determine the diffraction limit.

Diffraction Limit Formula

The formula for a diffraction limit is as follows:

DL = 1.22 * w / d
  • Where DL is the diffraction limit (radians)
  • w is the wavelength of the light (cm)
  • d is the diameter of the telescope (cm)

To calculate a diffraction limit, divide the wavelength by the diameter of the telescope, then multiply by 1.22.

Diffraction Limit Definition

A diffraction limit is the minimum angular separation that a telescope or microscope and distinguish between. In other words, it’s a measure of the maximum limit of resolution seen by a telescope.

Why is diffraction limit important?

A diffraction limit is important because it defines the limit of the strength of a telescope. Decreasing the diffraction limit allows a telescope to distinguish between objects that are very far away, but relatively close together.

What is a diffraction limited aperture?

A diffraction-limited aperture is an aperture whose performance is capped by the size of the aperture. That is it’s reached its maximum resolution for the size that it currently is.

How to calculate diffraction limit?

To calculate the diffraction limit, first, determine the wavelength of the light entering the telescope. Next, determine the diameter of the lens. Finally, calculate the diffraction limit using the formula DL = 1.22 * w / d.