Chris described the fields of research in astronomy from the planetary to the cosmological scales
– C. Mann

The universe is primarily studied using electromagnetic radiation from radio waves to optical light to gamma rays
– C. Mann

We set the stage in our own solar system before looking outward to other star systems
– C. Mann

Here we must define what an exoplanet actually is (that’s not as easy as you might think!)
– C. Mann

The 1st exoplanet was discovered 25 years ago – in an orbit we did not expect!
– C. Mann

Detection methods: first velocimetry, then transit (pictured here), and now direct imaging
– C. Mann

These methods have resulted in a virtual zoo of planets of all orbits, shapes, and sizes
– C. Mann

The telescopic array Chris uses in his own research
– C. Mann

Chris Mann – “What are Exoplanets and how are they studied?”
by Tom Koleszar, 21 Jan 2021.

Chris is a PhD student at the Université de Montréal (UdeM) currently studying extra-solar planets, or “exoplanets.” His talk started with an introduction to the domains of astronomy and the methods used in the study of the cosmos. He then focussed in on planets and especially exoplanets, describing what they are and how they are found and studied. It is a field of research that is still very young, but progressing rapidly, especially as new tools and technologies become available.

We got a flavour of what is out there – several thousand exoplanets have been identified to date, with more coming all the time. The variety of sizes, orbits, and compositions discovered to date is astounding! Towards the end, Chris gave us a quick overview of his own work, using a telescopic array in New Mexico to verify and detail discoveries made by an orbiting observatory.

In closing, Chris answered all sorts of questions on exoplanets and other space subjects in a very knowledgeable manner. Thank-you Chris!