Exoplanet Transits and the Instruments Used to Observe Them
Date
2021-05
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Abstract
Using photometry and the transit method of detection I have produced a satisfactory light curve for the exoplanet WASP-43b. With data borrowed from NASA, I have also calculated a radius (0.86 𝑅!), volume (0.73 𝑉!) and density (2.73 𝜌!) for the planet. Through these observations I have confirmed that there is an exoplanet orbiting the type K7V star WASP-43 and inferred that it does appear to be a dense hot (due to proximity to star) Jovian planet. The accepted quantities for the properties of the star listed above are within my margins of error. I am pleased with the results I have been able to attain. Knowing more about these planets helps astronomers develop these methods so that they can get a clear an image as possible of the planet. Most importantly, can it sustain life? This comes down to its distance from the star, the presence of liquid water and other essential molecules such as phosphorus (essential for the creation of DNA.)
Description
Thesis completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Alfred University Honors Program.
Type
Thesis
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Keywords
Honors thesis, Photometry, Exoplanets, Astronomy