Characterization method

The Rossiter–McLaughlin Effect

A spectroscopic signature seen during transit: as the planet crosses the face of its rotating star, it blocks first the approaching then the receding limb, distorting the star's measured velocity. The shape of that distortion reveals whether the planet's orbit is aligned with the star's spin — a key clue to how the system formed and migrated.

Highlights

›Reveals whether an orbit is aligned with its star's spin

Transit Method
Radial Velocity Method
Planetary Migration

Knowledge connections

Associated withTransit Method
Associated withRadial Velocity Method
Associated withPlanetary Migration

Sources

Facts on this topic will be cited from these primary and reference sources.

NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.

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The Rossiter–McLaughlin Effect

Highlights

Methods, worlds & facilities

Knowledge connections

Sources

The Rossiter–McLaughlin Effect

Highlights

Methods, worlds & facilities

Knowledge connections

Sources