JOURNAL ARTICLE

Exoplanet and Binary Star Light Curve Demonstration.

  • Published In: Physics Teacher, 2025, v. 63, n. 3. P. 193 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Lark, Adam C.; Moser, Bradley 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the use of live light curve demonstrations in the introductory astronomy classroom to distinguish between exoplanet and companion star transits. By measuring the light produced by stars and observing dips in brightness, astronomers can identify potential exoplanets. The demonstration setup involves a light source, a pendulum, and a light sensor to mimic the geometry of an exoplanet transit. Different equipment configurations can produce satisfactory light curves, with the demonstration highlighting key characteristics such as transit depth, duration, and orbital period. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Physics Teacher. 2025/03, Vol. 63, Issue 3, p193
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0031-921X
  • DOI:10.1119/5.0150885
  • Accession Number:183389532
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