WorldWide Telescope and Its Impact on Astronomy

Roy Gould introduces the WorldWide Telescope, a Microsoft Research project, highlighting its potential to revolutionize astronomy and education. He compares its impact to Galileo's first telescope use. The tool integrates images from top telescopes, offering a seamless universe view. Curtis Wong elaborates on its interactive features, emphasizing its educational value and dedication to Jim Gray. The telescope will be freely available, aiming to inspire exploration and learning.

What significant event is the world going to celebrate related to astronomy?

• The launch of the Hubble Space Telescope

• The International Year of Astronomy

• The discovery of the first exoplanet

• The first human landing on Mars

What does the WorldWide Telescope combine to create a holistic view of the universe?

• Satellite images of Earth

• Images from the world's greatest telescopes

• Data from NASA missions

• Images from the Hubble Space Telescope

What was the misconception about the universe in the 1920s?

• The universe was thought to be infinite

• The universe was thought to be flat

• Black holes were believed to be stars

• The Milky Way was considered the entire universe

What does the WorldWide Telescope allow users to do?

• Communicate with aliens

• Experience the universe through a virtual tour

• Predict future astronomical events

• Travel to other planets

What can users do with the WorldWide Telescope besides taking tours?

• Build their own telescopes

• Predict weather patterns

• Travel to space

• Create their own tours

What feeling do people often express when looking at the night sky?

• Excitement

• Fear

• Insignificance

• Joy

Who is the WorldWide Telescope dedicated to?

• Isaac Newton

• Galileo Galilei

• Albert Einstein

• Jim Gray

What is one of the main goals of the WorldWide Telescope?

• To find new planets

• To replace traditional telescopes

• To inspire kids to explore the universe

• To predict the end of the universe

What is a unique feature of the WorldWide Telescope tours?

• They are only available in certain countries

• They are pre-recorded and cannot be paused

• They are interactive and can be paused

• They require a subscription

When will the WorldWide Telescope be available for download?

• This fall

• Next summer

• This spring

• Next winter