Searching for exoplanets

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Extrasolar Planets, Space Exploration, Space Observations (From Earth), Space Programs, Astrometry, Astronomical Interferometry, Planetary Systems

Scientific paper

The series of investigations which lead to the conclusion that a serious search for planets orbiting stars other than our Sun (exoplanets) is feasible, are reviewed. The expectation of a search and the means of direct and indirect detection that would be used are addressed. It is suggested that such a search should include the examination of the entire system of events leading up to the formation of a planetary system, and so the study of circumstellar material is an integral part of the study of exoplanetary systems. The search for exoplanets can start with groundbased means in this decade, and planets the size of Jupiter or Uranus should be detectable among nearby stars. The methods will necessarily be indirect, but planning can begin now for space missions that would have the capability of finding hundreds of examples of giant planets if they are as common as present work indicates. A negative result would be equally significant, indicating the need for a searching reevaluation of present ideas. Ultimately, direct detection and the study of planets, including Earth-like planets, should be possible, and early concept studies could start now. A three phase program, TOPS (Toward Other Planetary Systems) is presented. The first phase, TOPS-0, would concentrate on ground based activities, combined with preparatory work for the next phase, TOPS-1. In this phase, one or more space based missions would carry out an extensive search for exoplanets. In the third phase, TOPS-2, a major instrument that could detect Earth like planets directly would be developed.

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