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Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity

Exoplanet

A planet situated outside the Solar System that orbits a star, stellar remnant, or brown dwarf.

Governing formula Transit Depth ΔF / F = (R_planet / R_star)²
SI unit Earth Masses (M_⊕) or Jupiter Masses (M_J)

In depth

Discovered primarily via the Transit Method (measuring periodic starlight dimming) and Radial Velocity Method (detecting Doppler wobbles). Planetary habitability requires orbiting within the circumstellar habitable zone.

Examples in the real world

Kepler-186f, an Earth-sized exoplanet orbiting within the habitable zone of a red dwarf star.