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Count the dims

29 April 2015

Presumably exoplanets can only be detected when the star they orbit dims as they pass in front of it as viewed from Earth. Have astronomers calculated what percentage of planetary systems meet this criteria? If so, how?

Paul Lea, Exeter, Devon, UK

We pay £25 for every answer published in Âé¶¹´«Ã½. To answer this question – or ask a new one – visit newscientist.com/lastword. Terms and conditions apply.

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