transmission spectroscopy

Transmission spectroscopy is a method used to study the atmosphere of a distant planet. When a planet passes in front of its star, some of the star’s light filters through the planet’s atmospheric gases. Different gases absorb specific wavelengths of light, leaving telltale signs in the star’s light spectrum. By analyzing these patterns, scientists identify which gases are present, helping to understand the planet’s atmosphere, climate, and potential habitability. This technique is a key tool in exploring exoplanets and searching for signs of life beyond Earth.