Exoplanets are planets outside our solar system from "summary" of Exoplanets and Alien Solar Systems by Tahir Yaqoob
Exoplanets, also known as extrasolar planets, are celestial bodies that orbit stars other than our Sun. These planets are located outside our solar system, in other star systems within our Milky Way galaxy. The discovery of exoplanets has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and opened up new possibilities for exploring other worlds beyond our own. Scientists have detected exoplanets using various methods, such as the transit method, radial velocity method, and direct imaging. The transit method involves observing a slight dimming of a star's light as an exoplanet passes in front of it, while the radial velocity method detects the gravitational pull of an exoplanet on its host star, causing it to wobble slightly. Direct imaging, on the other hand, captures images of exoplanets directly using advanced telescopes. Exoplanets come in a wide range of sizes, compositions, and orbits. Some exoplanets are similar in size and composition to Earth, while others are gas giants like Jupiter or Neptune. The orbits of exoplanets can vary from very close to their host star (hot Jupiters) to extremely distant (rogue planets). Each exoplanet presents a unique set of characteristics that can help scientists understand the diversity of planetary systems in the galaxy. The study of exoplanets has revealed that our solar system is not unique and that planetary systems are common throughout the universe. By studying exoplanets, scientists can learn more about the formation and evolution of planets, as well as the potential for life beyond Earth. The search for exoplanets continues to be a major focus of astronomical research, with new discoveries being made regularly using advanced technologies and innovative techniques.
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