Characterization method
The Secondary Eclipse
The moment a planet passes behind its star. The dip in the system's combined light equals the light the planet was contributing, so subtracting the two isolates the planet's thermal emission and reflected light — the basis of emission spectroscopy and dayside temperature measurements.
Highlights
- ›Planet hides behind its star, isolating its own light
Methods, worlds & facilities
Across exoplanet science
Knowledge connections
- Associated withEmission Spectroscopy
- Associated withTransit Method
- Associated withEmission Spectroscopy
- Associated withPhase Curves
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.