How are exoplanets found by the transit method?
The transit method measures small periodic dips in starlight as a planet passes in front of its star.
Formation, motion and physical explanation
Dip depth constrains the radius ratio and repetition gives orbital period. A transit is not seen unless the orbit aligns near our line of sight.
Evidence, applications and limits
Starspots and binaries can mimic the signal, so candidates are checked with methods such as radial velocity. One atmospheric spectral line is not proof of life. Conclusions about distant objects rely on testing images, spectra, time variation and physical models together.
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