Compare calculators
Both calculators run independently — change the inputs on either side to compare results.
Optics
Telescope Resolution Calculator
Determine the angular resolution, light-gathering power, or limiting magnitude of a telescope based on aperture and wavelength. Perfect for amateur astronomers comparing instruments or planning observations.
Fill in the required fields to see your result.
Optics
Diffraction Limit Calculator
Calculate the smallest resolvable spot or feature that an optical system can distinguish, based on wavelength and aperture. Use it when designing cameras, telescopes, or microscopes where resolution is critical.
Fill in the required fields to see your result.
Key differences
| Telescope Resolution Calculator | Diffraction Limit Calculator | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Optics | Optics |
| Inputs required | 4 | 4 |
| Result | Result | Angular Resolution (μrad) |
| What it does | Determine the angular resolution, light-gathering power, or limiting magnitude of a telescope based on aperture and wavelength. Perfect for amateur astronomers comparing instruments or planning observations. | Calculate the smallest resolvable spot or feature that an optical system can distinguish, based on wavelength and aperture. Use it when designing cameras, telescopes, or microscopes where resolution is critical. |