6. Microlensing, Astrometry and Other Methods

Frontiers/Controversies in Astrophysics (ASTR 160)

The class begins with a discussion on transits important astronomical events that help astronomers to find new planets. The event occurs when a celestial body moves across the face of the star it revolves around and blocks some of its light. By calculating the amount of light that is being obscured astronomers can obtain important information about both star and planet, such as size, density, radial velocity and more. The concept of planetary migration is explained in order to better understand the dramatic differences between bodies in the Inner and Outer Solar System. Finally, potential problems in the Solar System that may occur as a result of migration are addressed.

00:00 - Chapter 1. Complexities and New Observations on Hot Jupiters
07:38 - Chapter 2. Discovery of Planetary Transits
19:53 - Chapter 3. Limits of Finding Planets Directly from Transits
28:54 - Chapter 4. Metallicity and Planetary Migration
43:32 - Chapter 5. Consequences and Limits of the Idea of Planetary Migration

Complete course materials are available at the Open Yale Courses website: http://open.yale.edu/courses

This course was recorded in Spring 2007.