The Kepler mission searches for Earth-like planets by looking for ...

[rmenurse]

The Kepler mission searches for Earth-like planets by looking for the dip in the brightness of a star as such a planet transited across it. Why does this technique actually miss the vast majority of planets?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Galileo challenged the idea that objects in the heavens were perfect by
 
  A) showing that heavy objects fall at the same rate as lighter objects.
  B) observing sunspots on the Sun and mountains on the Moon.
  C) proving Kepler's laws were correct.
  D) inventing the telescope.

[bubulittle310@msn.cn]

Answer to Question 1

By searching for transits, Kepler can only detect those planets with orbits that cross our line of sight to the star. This means the orbit must be very close to edge-on. Because planetary systems around other stars will have a random orientation to us, most planets will not cross our line of sight and cause a dip in the star's brightness. Therefore, Kepler will miss the vast majority of planetary systems. Nevertheless, this is the best method of detection using current technology.

Answer to Question 2

B

[rmenurse]

TY

[bubulittle310@msn.cn]

You're welcome