Good Heavens!  The Human Side of Astronomy cover image

Good Heavens! The Human Side of Astronomy

Amazing Exoplanets Part 1

Jun 30, 2023
Discover the fascinating world of exoplanets with Wayne and Dan. They discuss the Kepler Space Telescope's role in finding over 5,000 known exoplanets since the 1990s. The T.O.I. 178 multi-planetary system, consisting of six interlocked exoplanets with varying compositions, is explored, along with the concept of intelligent life and mathematical resonance. They also delve into the limitations of science, the purpose of the universe, and the unique characteristics of the wobbly planet Kepler 413B.
49:57

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Exoplanet Kepler 413 B has a wobbly orbit due to the gravitational influence of its binary star system, resulting in unpredictable seasons and rapid weather changes.
  • The Test Object of Interest 178 exoplanet system exhibits a mathematical resonance among the planets' orbits, with their orbital periods having integer ratios, suggesting a synchronized motion and raising questions about the cosmos' underlying design and purpose.

Deep dives

Kepler 413 B: A Wobbly Planet

Kepler 413 B is an exoplanet located 2,300 light years away in the constellation of Cygnus. It orbits a binary star system, an orange dwarf and a red dwarf, every 66 days. What makes this planet unique is its wobbly orbit due to the gravitational influence of the two stars. The planet's orbit is tilted about two and a half degrees compared to the plane of the stars, causing the planet's motion to flex up and down. This results in unpredictable seasons that change rapidly, making weather forecasts impossible on this strange world.

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