Detect planets in solar systems like ours

AI Thread Summary
Detecting planets in a solar system similar to ours from a few light-years away is feasible with current technology, particularly if the system's orbital plane is viewed edge-on. This orientation allows for easier measurement of the Sun's radial velocity changes and increases the likelihood of observing planetary transits. The gravitational influence of larger planets, especially Jupiter, would be detectable from such a distance. Additional details about the planets would require observing transits. Overall, advancements in detection methods enhance our ability to study distant solar systems.
nicoo
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Hi,

With today's technologies, if our exact solar system were at a few light-years from us, could we detect its planets ?

/Nico
 
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Probably. It depends on the inclination of the orbital plane. If we look at the solar system "edge on" it would be relatively easy, as this view angle allows us to measure the largest changes in the radial velocity of the Sun and would also give us the best chance to see the planets transit cross the Sun.
 
You could detect the gravitational influence of the planets [mainly Jupiter] at such a distance rather easily. You would need transits to tease out further details.
 

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