Radio telescopes can observe planets, detect sun spots, see between stars, and observe energetic objects. They work by collecting radio waves using a parabolic dish and receiver, amplifying the signal, and recording the data. Radio telescopes have advantages over optical telescopes in that they can see further distances, including the other side of the Milky Way, and can observe day or night. Their disadvantages are that they must be very large to be effective and are expensive to build and maintain, requiring super-cooled electronics for precision.