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A Planet Detection Tutorial and SimulatorDetection of extra-solar planets has been a very popular topic with the general public for years. Considerable media coverage of recent detections (currently at about 50) has only heightened the interest in the topic. School children are particularly interested in learning about recent astronomical discoveries. Scientists have the knowledge and responsibility to present this information in both an understandable and interesting format. Most classrooms and homes are now connected to the internet, which can be utilized to provide more than a traditional 'flat' presentation. An interactive software package on planet detection has been developed. The major topics include: "1996 - The Break Through Year In Planet Detection"; "What Determines If A Planet Is Habitable?"; "How Can We Find Other Planets (Search Methods)"; "All About the Kepler Mission: How To Find Terrestrial Planets"; and "A Planet Detection Simulator". Using the simulator, the student records simulated observations and then analyzes and interprets the data within the program. One can determine the orbit and planet size, the planet's temperature and surface gravity, and finally determine if the planet is habitable. Originally developed for the Macintosh, a web based browser version is being developed.
Document ID
20010094782
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Knoch, David
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
DeVincenzi, Donald
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 27, 2001
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: 197th Meeting
Location: San Diego, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: January 7, 2001
End Date: January 11, 2001
Sponsors: American Astronomical Society
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 406-05-01-01
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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