The universe is vast and awesome, and for the first time we are becoming a part of it. The KAO observes infrared radiation from planets, stars, gas clouds, dust clouds and even distant galaxies. The Electromagnetic Spectrum Infrared radiation, radio waves, ultraviolet light, x-rays, and gamma rays are all different forms of electromagnetic radiation. All are waves, but the length of the waves changes with the different kinds of radiation. Human eyes can see visible wavelengths.
Human skin can feel infrared radiation.
The diagram above shows the wavelengths of the different forms of electromagnetic radiation. Notice that the earth's atmosphere absorbs much of the electromagnetic spectrum. This is the minimum elevation for a telescope that studies the universe at this particular wavelength. Convert your answer from kilometers to feet.