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asdf60
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How exactly is this done? Is it done in the visible wavelengths or in the radio? Also, how small can the (planet size)/(sun size) ratio be. I'd expect that given noise especially, there's a definite lower limit.
Scientists use the transit method to detect planets by observing the dimming of a star's light as a planet passes in front of it. This periodic dimming indicates the presence of a planet orbiting the star.
To detect planets using the transit method, scientists collect data about the brightness of a star over time. They look for regular dips in the brightness, which could indicate the presence of a planet passing in front of the star.
The transit method is a highly accurate way to detect planets, with a success rate of over 90%. However, it is more effective in detecting larger, closer planets than smaller or more distant ones.
The transit method is limited by the fact that it requires the planet to pass directly in front of the star as seen from Earth. This means that it can only detect planets with orbits that are aligned with our line of sight.
The transit method is most effective in detecting large, close-in planets known as "hot Jupiters". However, it has also been used to detect smaller, more Earth-like planets. It is not as effective in detecting planets that are very far from their stars or have highly elliptical orbits.