Optics are governed by a theoretical resolving limit called the “diffraction limit.” But most observations from Earth are “seeing-limited” due to atmospheric effects and work at a much lower resolution than the diffraction limit. The distortion introduced by the passage of light through several miles of turbulent atmosphere is the limiting factor. Most advanced observatories use adaptive optics technology to compensate for atmospheric turbulence, resulting in greater image resolution for faint targets, but it is still difficult to reach the diffraction limit using adaptive optics.
I worked for a startup company founded by two telescope optical scientists from the Keck Observatory. We were applying their adaptive optics technology to free space optical communication.
Either that or you slept at a Holiday Inn last night?
(hoping you remember that old TV commercial from the 80s, or was it 90s?)
In any case, thanks for the insider info. :)