If you are interested in becoming a member of this group, please join the group at Exoplanets to be alerted to upcoming meetings, events, papers or other important topics.
Note: the information below is NOT real (only for demo purposes).
Overview
The exoplanet group focuses on the detection, characterization, and theoretical modeling of planets beyond our solar system. We bring together astronomers, planetary scientists, astrobiologists, and enthusiasts to discuss the latest discoveries, observational techniques, and research challenges in this rapidly evolving field. Our members range from professional researchers to amateur astronomers, all united by a fascination with worlds orbiting distant stars and what they can tell us about planetary formation, evolution, and the potential for life beyond Earth.
Current Projects
- Project 1 (2025-2026) - Transit Detection Campaign: Coordinated observation of candidate exoplanet systems identified by TESS, using both professional and amateur equipment to confirm and refine orbital parameters of newly discovered exoplanets.
- Project 2 (2024-2025) - Habitable Zone Catalog: Collaborative effort to compile and maintain a comprehensive database of exoplanets orbiting within their star’s habitable zone, with particular emphasis on Earth-sized worlds and their atmospheric properties when available.
Meeting Times
This group meets every Thursday at 2pm over Zoom. Please email the section leaders or this document for access instructions.
Further Reading
- Link 1: “Exoplanets: The Search for Other Worlds” - Comprehensive online course through OpenLearn
- Link 2: “The Exoplanet Handbook” by Michael Perryman - Essential reference text for understanding detection methods and current research
Resources
- Exoplanet Archive - NASA’s comprehensive database of confirmed exoplanets
- Citizen Science Opportunities - List of ongoing projects where amateurs can contribute to exoplanet research
- Observation Equipment Guide - Recommendations for telescopes and equipment suitable for exoplanet transit observations
- Journal Club - Monthly discussion of significant recent papers in the field
- Software Tools - Collection of open-source analysis tools for exoplanet data