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
Methods, worlds & facilities
Knowledge connections
- Associated withTransit Method
- Associated withRadial Velocity Method
- Associated withPlanetary Migration
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- 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.