How can NASA tell exactly what an exoplanet’s is made up of?
If we are so many light years away from the planets, how is it possible to find such information about the core?
It is called spectroscopy. All objects in this universe give out a spectrum of light. On Earth, we have analyzed and categorized all such spectrum for different chemical elements. Astronomers analyze the spectrum of the planet to decide what the planet is made of.
I know that it is spectroscopy. But how would it help to find the information about the core?
If it is about the core, you could take a reasonable stab at the composition with available spectral data. With a little more information like the mass of the planet, it is marginally safe to make assumptions about the planet’s core.
Makes sense. Thanks!
Periodic Table of Spectra