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The Search for Exoplanets: What Astronomers Know cover art

The Search for Exoplanets: What Astronomers Know

By: The Great Courses, Joshua N. Winn
Narrated by: Professor Joshua N. Winn
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Publisher's Summary

As recently as 1990, it seemed plausible that the solar system was a unique phenomenon in our galaxy. Thanks to advances in technology and clever new uses of existing data, now we know that planetary systems and possibly even a new Earth can be found throughout galaxies near and far. 

We are living during a new golden age of planetary discovery, with the prospect of finding many worlds like Earth. Most of the thousands of planets we've detected can't be imaged directly, but researchers are able to use subtle clues obtained in ingenious ways to assemble an astonishing picture of planetary systems far different from our own. We are in the midst of an astronomical revolution, comparable to the Copernican revolution that established our current view of the solar system - and we invite you to take part. 

Embark on this unrivaled adventure in 24 lectures by a veteran planet hunter. Designed for everyone from armchair explorers to serious skywatchers, The Search for Exoplanets follows the numerous twists and turns in the hunt for exoplanets - the false starts, the sudden breakthroughs, and the extraordinary discoveries. Explore systems containing super-Earths, mini-Neptunes, lava worlds, and even stranger worlds. You also get behind-the-scenes information on the techniques astronomers used to find evidence of planets at mind-boggling distances from our home base. Learn how astronomers determine how many planets are in a system as well as how large they are and the characteristics of their atmospheres. You will feel like Dr. Watson in the presence of Sherlock Holmes as Professor Winn extracts a wealth of information from a spectrum, a light graph, a diffraction pattern, and other subtle clues.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio. 

©2015 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2015 The Great Courses

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It's a rabbit-hole. Enjoy.

What did you like most about The Search for Exoplanets: What Astronomers Know?

Amazing topic! The delivery is superb, although I have to admit, I nearly gave up in the opening chapter when I realised the professor was using both imperial and metric systems. Seriously America, grow up and get with the program - you're holding the rest of us back.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Search for Exoplanets: What Astronomers Know?

Just like that scene in The Matrix when Neo's eyes snap open and he famously says "Woah - I know kung-fu!" - yeah, it's that kind of journey.

What does Professor Joshua N. Winn bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

It's VERY clear that this guy knows his topic. I don't know how closely he "stuck to the script", but I was often under the impression that he was delivering his wisdom and insight as unscripted brilliance, rather that narrated facts.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Successfully generated wonder, and the buzz you get from eureka moments.

Any additional comments?

I can't let that whole, annoying imperial measuring system thing go. It really, really bugged me, although that was the ONLY criticism I have for this superb book. A truly great addition to The Great Courses series!

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fascinating

I found this series well set out, detailed (without being overwhelming). Overall a terrific listen.

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Can't Get Enough of It

This is so great to listen to for any learner, loved listening to it twice.

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Wonderful science

Love the way science is progressing as far as Exoplanets are concerned. Good narration or lecture.

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