Offline science library · use your browser’s Print menu for paper or PDF.

PIP’S STARHAVEN · ACTIVITY SHEET · CHILDREN

Find the repeating starlight dip

20 minutes · Paper · Pencil · Ruler

Your investigation

  1. Draw a graph with observation numbers 1 to 12 along the bottom and brightness from 90 to 100 up the side.
  2. Plot these pretend readings: 100, 100, 94, 100, 100, 94, 100, 100, 94, 100, 100, 94.
  3. Circle the dips and predict the next observation number with a dip if the pattern continues.
  4. Write why another explanation still needs to be checked.

Think, draw, explain

What is the spacing between dips?

Do these invented measurements prove a real exoplanet exists?

Compare your explanation with the grown-up answer guide after you have tried.