How Do We Find Planets Around Other Stars?

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This fun and simple hands-on astronomy activity describes techniques scientists use to find planets orbiting other stars. Learners will spin “stars” to simulate star wobble (astrometry and radial velocity) and will explore the transit method and direct imaging of planets. The pdf contains step-by-step instructions, photos, presentation tips, and links to background information.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 3 Foam balls (“stars”): one will have a planet, one will be without a planet
  • 1 Large “Planet” (small ball) attached to a golf tee
  • Alternate Material for large planet on the golf tee: Clay
  • 1 Toothpick
  • Tiny ball of clay (1 mm)
  • A book approximately one inch thick

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Stars and Galaxies
  • Physical Sciences
    • Light and Optics
      • Sunlight and Color
    • Vibration and Waves
      • The Doppler Effect
      • Diffraction and Interference

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Astronomical Society of the Pacific,