Illustration for the question “What is the name given to the phenomenon where a planet passes in front of a star?”

Nature

What is the name given to the phenomenon where a planet passes in front of a star?

Correct answer Transit

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The transit is a captivating astronomical phenomenon where a planet passes in front of its star, as seen from Earth, causing a slight decrease in the star's brightness. This method has been used to discover thousands of exoplanets, or planets outside our solar system, by analyzing variations in starlight. Transits of Mercury and Venus in front of the Sun are rare but observable events from Earth, offering unique opportunities for scientists to study the atmosphere of these planets.

Content last updated · April 10, 2024

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