Exoplanet transits reveal hidden worlds
When an exoplanet crosses its host star, it briefly dims the star's light, allowing astronomers to discover distant worlds and even probe their atmospheres for signs of life.
Astronomers detect distant exoplanets by observing a tiny dip in a star's brightness as a planet passes in front of it. This "transit method" works only when the planet's orbit is perfectly aligned with our view, creating a subtle cosmic eclipse. For Earth-sized planets, the dimming can be as small as 0.01 percent, requiring incredibly precise instruments.
There's more to this story — open the app to keep reading.
Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraphs · plus a 3-question quiz