Astronomy & Space Science · AST-612
Transmission & Emission Spectroscopy: Structures & Vocabulary
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Structure
Structure of Transmission & Emission Spectroscopy
A transmission spectrum records small changes in apparent transit radius with wavelength. Emission measurements can compare system light before and during secondary eclipse or separate planet light directly. Molecular features, scattering slopes, clouds, and temperature gradients shape the result.
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- 01How We Find and Characterize ExoplanetsOpen source ↗
NASA Science
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Atmospheric gases absorb and emit at characteristic wavelengths.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026Exoplanet spectroscopy measures wavelength-dependent planet signals to infer atmospheric composition, temperature, clouds, and circulation.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026Space telescopes have detected water, carbon-bearing molecules, alkali metals, clouds, and thermal structures in exoplanet atmospheres.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026