Exoplanets - The Search for New Worlds

Explore the fascinating world of exoplanets in this 84-minute conference talk from the World Science Festival. Delve into the groundbreaking discoveries of planets beyond our solar system, from the first confirmed exoplanet to the diverse array of over 700 known today. Learn about the search for Earth-like planets, the concept of habitable zones, and the potential for finding life elsewhere in the universe. Discover the innovative techniques astronomers use to detect and study exoplanets, including the transit method and its importance in gathering valuable data. Gain insights into planetary formation, the political aspects of exoplanet research, and the Kepler mission's remarkable findings. Join experts Natalie Batalha, Matt Mountain, and Sara Seager as they discuss their passion for science and reflect on the unique era of discovery we currently inhabit in this thought-provoking exploration of new worlds beyond our own.

Syllabus

Dan Harris's Introduction
Participant Introductions
Finding the first exoplanet.
Carbon and water... the building blocks for life.
Have you found any exoplanets that are just like earth?
What is the habitable zone?
How do we get to these exoplanets?
Is finding life on other planets important?
How do you find an exoplanet?
Transiting planets are very valuable for measurements.
What is the political side to finding exoplanets?
How do planets form?
What planets has Kepler discovered so far?
What makes you want to do science?
Does spending your time thinking big take away some of the small?
We are in a unique period of discovery.