How precise can Doppler shift be measured in detecting exo-planets?

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SUMMARY

The precision of Doppler shift measurement in detecting exo-planets can reach as low as 10 cm/s using state-of-the-art spectrographs. This technique involves analyzing the star's spectrum to determine its velocity through Doppler's law, where the shift in wavelength is directly proportional to the star's speed. The formula V = c (Δλ/λ0) allows for precise calculations, revealing shifts as small as Δλ = λ0/10^8. Advanced techniques, such as comparing spectral lines to a frequency comb, enhance measurement accuracy significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Doppler's law and its application in astrophysics
  • Understanding of spectral analysis and spectrographs
  • Familiarity with frequency comb technology
  • Basic knowledge of light speed (c = 3 x 10^8 m/s)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced spectrograph technologies for exoplanet detection
  • Study the principles of frequency combs in precision measurement
  • Explore the mathematical applications of Doppler shift in astrophysics
  • Investigate case studies of exoplanet discoveries using Doppler spectroscopy
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students preparing for exams in astrophysics, particularly those focusing on exoplanet detection methods.

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As the title says, I'm interested in the precision a Doppler shift can be revealed.

That's why I read that it's possible to detect exo-planets by measuring the Doppler shift of the star's spectra. Works like this: the stars moves, since it moves back and forth is spectrum suffer from Doppler shift, by measuring this shift you can deduce at which speed the star is moving.

Now, my professor said once that state of the art spectrographs can measure the star moving at 10 cm/s.

But, using Doppler's law: V = c \frac{\lambda -\lambda_0}{\lambda_0} \qquad \Rightarrow \qquad \Delta \lambda = \frac{\lambda_0 V}{c} and setting, for now, V = 1 m/s, c = 3 \cdot 10^{8} m/s that means that we can reveal a \Delta \lambda = \frac{\lambda_0}{10^8}.

My professer intended that they use a special tecnique to achieve this precision and that he would probably ask me this at my exam (which is tomorrow) so please, if someone could answer very fast i would be very grateful.
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
To give two keywords: Compare spectral lines to a frequency comb.

As interesting comparison, our Earth drags around the sun with approximately 10cm/s.
 

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