Pre-cum-Mains GS Foundation Program for UPSC 2026 | Starting from 5th Dec. 2024 Click Here for more information
- Scientists from National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) have developed an Astrocomb. It is a custom made frequency comb which can precisely measure frequencies or colours of light.
- The instrument will help the precision needed for discovering and characterising planets orbiting M dwarf stars. M dwarfs (also known as red dwarfs) are the most common stars, comprising nearly 70% of all the stars in the Milky Way Galaxy.
- A star’s nuclear furnace emits white light. This light is modified by elements in the atmosphere that absorb certain narrow bands of colour. There are oscillations in colour due to the gravitational pull of an orbiting planet. Astronomers look into these periodic changes in colour to search for planets orbiting distant stars.
Discover more from Free UPSC IAS Preparation For Aspirants
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
