Hubble Science: Exoplanets, Alien Atmospheres

Exoplanets are hard to detect due to their small size and bright stars. Hubble helps by analyzing their atmospheres using the transit method, which requires precise timing. When a planet passes in front of its star, some starlight is absorbed by the planet's atmosphere. Hubble uses spectroscopy to identify absorbed wavelengths, revealing atmospheric composition. Hubble has detected elements like sodium and hydrogen, and evidence of methane and water vapor. This technique also measures atmospheric height, indicating its weight and composition. Hubble pioneered this method, now used by other observatories.

What challenges do astronomers face when trying to detect exoplanets?

Explain the significance of the transit method in exoplanet observations.

Discuss the importance of timing in conducting exoplanet observations with Hubble.

How does the Hubble Space Telescope analyze the atmospheric composition of exoplanets?

What elements and molecules has Hubble detected in the atmospheres of exoplanets?