Light and the Search for Life on Other Planets
What can astronomers can do with the information they receive from these tools?
Watch the first 2 minutes of this video, which focuses on how scientists use light and heat signals from faraway planets to determine their atmospheric composition. As you watch, look for evidence that supports how light can be used to guide the search for life on other planets.
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Video: NOVA scienceNOW: Hunt for Alien Earths | Detecting Life on Other Planets
Take Notes
- Describe the process scientists use to infer the presence of gases in the atmosphere of a distant planet based on analyzing light and heat signals.
- What evidence presented in the video would help students evaluate the claim that light can confirm the life potential of a distant planet?
