Exoplanet Detection Methods Quiz

What are the two primary methods used to discover most exoplanets?

• Spectroscopy and photometry

• Direct imaging and gravitational lensing

• Transit and radial velocity methods

• Astrometry and microlensing

Why is it difficult to directly image an exoplanet?

• The technology to image exoplanets does not exist

• Exoplanets do not reflect any light

• The light from the star overwhelms the planet's reflected light

• Exoplanets are too small to be seen

What device is used in the direct imaging method to block out starlight?

• Microscope

• Spectrometer

• Coronagraph

• Telescope

Which was the first exoplanet to be directly imaged?

• Kepler-22b

• 2M1207b

• HR8799

• Proxima Centauri b

What future capabilities might direct imaging provide?

• Predicting solar flares

• Measuring the age of stars

• Identifying atmospheric patterns, oceans, and land masses

• Detecting gravitational waves