Pearson Edexcel GCSE Astronomy Paper 2 Question Paper and Mark Scheme Combined (1AS0/02: Telescopic Astronomy)

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Pearson Edexcel GCSE Astronomy Paper 2 Question Paper and Mark Scheme Combined (1AS0/02: Telescopic Astronomy)

Paper 2 is the second written examination in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Astronomy qualification (1AS0). This paper focuses on Telescopic Astronomy, assessing students’ understanding of observational techniques, telescopes, celestial phenomena, and the application of physics to astronomical observations.

Paper 2 tests students on both theoretical knowledge and practical astronomical skills, including data analysis and interpretation.

It typically includes:

✔ What the Paper Covers

Paper 2 assesses knowledge and understanding of topics such as:

🔭 Telescopes & Observational Techniques

Optical telescopes
Reflecting vs refracting telescopes
Telescope structures, mounts, and tracking
Resolving power, magnification, focal length
Detector technologies (CCDs, photographic plates, etc.)
Effects of light pollution and atmospheric interference

🌌 Deep-Sky and Telescopic Astronomy

Galaxies, nebulae, clusters
Stellar evolution observed via telescopes
Spectroscopy and spectral classes
Redshift, Doppler effect
Detection of exoplanets
Space-based observatories

🧪 Practical and Mathematical Skills

Interpreting graphs, tables, and astronomical data
Calculations involving angles, magnification, focal lengths, and telescope performance
Using logbooks or observational records
Applying formulae provided in the exam

✔ Structure of the Paper

Paper 2 is a written exam containing:

Multiple-choice questions
Short-answer questions
Structured and extended-response questions
Calculation-based problems
Data-interpretation questions

The paper assesses:

AO1 – Knowledge and understanding
AO2 – Application of knowledge
AO3 – Analysis and evaluation of observational methods and data

✔ Mark Scheme (Included in the Combined Document)

The combined Question Paper + Mark Scheme file includes:

Correct answers for all question types
Marking guidance and accepted alternative responses
Step-by-step marking for calculations
Required units, significant figures, and working
Annotation rules for examiners

The mark scheme rewards:

Clear scientific explanations
Accurate use of astronomical terminology
Correct calculations with appropriate working
Logical reasoning and evidence-based conclusions

Paper 2 forms 50% of the total GCSE Astronomy qualification, alongside Paper 1 (1AS0/01: Naked-Eye Astronomy).

Specifications

Author	Proficient Academic Tutor
Published	09 Dec 2025
Included files	PDF
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Astronomy Paper 2 Question Paper and Mark Scheme GCSE Astronomy 1AS0 1AS0/02 Astronomy Paper 2 Telescopic Astronomy Astronomy Exam Mark Scheme GCSE 2025 Edexcel Astronomy