Exoplanets
Astronomy
Planetary Science
Astrobiology
Detection Methods
Scientists discover exoplanets through transit method (starlight dips), radial velocity (star wobble), direct imaging, and microlensing (gravitational effects).
Types
Common types include hot Jupiters, super-Earths, mini-Neptunes, and Earth-like planets in habitable zones.
Notable Discoveries
Key findings include the TRAPPIST-1 system (seven Earth-sized planets), Proxima Centauri b (closest potentially habitable), and K2-18b (water vapor detected).
Search for Life
Research focuses on biosignature detection, habitable zone planets, liquid water potential, and atmospheric composition analysis.