Exoplanet Hunt explores the captivating search for planets beyond our solar system, focusing on habitable planets and the quest for extraterrestrial life. It demystifies exoplanet detection methods, such as the transit method, where scientists observe the slight dimming of a star as a planet passes in front of it, and the radial velocity method, which measures a star's wobble caused by an orbiting planet's gravitational pull. The book emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of this field, drawing connections to astronomy, astrophysics, geology, and even biology.
The book progresses by first detailing the methods used to detect exoplanets, then examines planetary habitability, including factors like the “habitable zone” and the presence of liquid water. Finally, it delves into the search for Earth-like exoplanets and the challenges of identifying biosignatures, indicators of life.
What sets this book apart is its focus on not just what exoplanets have been found but how they are detected and why this search matters.
