Short Wave How Do Astronomers Find Exoplanets? Wiggles!
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Apr 11, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, astronomer Josh Wynn from Princeton University shares insights as an exoplanet hunter. He explains how astronomers detect distant planets by observing the subtle 'wiggles' of stars. Learn about the Doppler effect and the astrometric technique used to unveil these celestial bodies. Josh highlights the groundbreaking work of the GAIA telescope, revealing how its data enhances our understanding of exoplanetary systems. Excitement builds for future discoveries in the ever-expanding universe!
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Transit Method Limitations
- Exoplanets have been found using the transit method, which detects planets passing in front of their stars.
- This method, however, misses most planets because it requires a precise orbital alignment.
Doppler Method
- The Doppler method detects exoplanets by measuring the star's wobble caused by the planet's gravitational pull.
- This wobble affects the star's light wavelength, which astronomers can detect with specialized equipment.
Astrometry
- Astrometry, an older technique, directly measures a star's position in the sky.
- It's now used to detect exoplanets by observing the star's wiggle caused by orbiting planets.