WASP-2b Exoplanet Confirmation and Radius Calculation

Abstract

This research focused on confirming the existence of the exoplanet WASP-2b using the transit method, which identifies periodic reductions in a star’s brightness as a planet passes in front of it. Observations were conducted at the Wallace Astrophysical Observatory using a 14-inch Celestron telescope. Despite adverse conditions during the observation period, the research successfully confirmed the presence of WASP-2b with 99% confidence. The transit depth was calculated as 11.9 ± 0.4 ppt, significantly lower than the predicted value of 91.6 ppt, and the radius of WASP-2b was determined to be 0.886 ± 0.014 R_Jup, differing from prior estimates. The results highlighted the challenges posed by observational conditions and underscored the need for more refined data collection methods to improve accuracy.

Research Period
September 2023 – December 2023

Project Guidance
Guidance under Professor Richard Teague, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Hypothesis
The research hypothesized that the transit method could confirm the existence of the exoplanet WASP-2b by detecting periodic reductions in the relative flux of the star WASP-2 during predicted transit times.

Motivation
This project was driven by a fascination with exoplanetary science and the potential for discovering extraterrestrial life. Studying exoplanets like WASP-2b not only contributes to understanding the diversity of planetary systems but also advances the search for habitable worlds. The opportunity to work on an observational project using the transit method provided valuable experience in optical astronomy and exoplanet detection.

Breakdown
The observational research was deconstructed into several manageable tasks:

  1. Observational Setup: Conducted observations of WASP-2 using a clear filter and 14-inch Celestron telescope at Wallace Astrophysical Observatory.
  2. Data Calibration: Reduced science images to compensate for biases, dark currents, and non-uniform illumination using master bias, dark, and flat files.
  3. Outlier Rejection: Applied hypothesis testing to identify and exclude data points with anomalously high flux values.
  4. Data Segmentation: Divided the dataset into pre-transit, during-transit, and post-transit segments to analyze flux variations.
  5. Statistical Validation: Performed t-tests and probability calculations to confirm that flux during the transit was statistically distinct from pre- and post-transit phases.
  6. Radius Calculation: Determined the radius of WASP-2b based on the observed transit depth and compared it with prior estimates.

Quantifiable Outcomes
1. Exoplanet Confirmation: Confirmed the existence of WASP-2b with 99% confidence.
2. Transit Depth and Radius: Calculated a transit depth of 11.9 ± 0.4 ppt and a radius of 0.886 ± 0.014 R_Jup.
3. Challenges Highlighted: Identified discrepancies in transit depth and radius due to adverse weather conditions and sub-optimal signal-to-noise ratio.
4. Presentation: Compiled findings into a comprehensive report and presented results with supporting graphs and statistical analyses, receiving constructive feedback.

Skills Acquired

1. Observational Techniques: Learned to operate ground-based telescopes and manage challenges posed by atmospheric interference.
2. Data Calibration: Gained proficiency in reducing observational data using calibration techniques to ensure accuracy.
3. Statistical Analysis: Enhanced skills in t-tests, hypothesis testing, and probability calculations for robust data interpretation.
4. Scientific Reporting: Improved ability to present complex findings through reports, graphs, and presentations tailored to diverse audiences.

Key Learnings

  1. Impact of Observational Conditions: Acknowledged the critical role of atmospheric effects on the signal-to-noise ratio and how this ratio influences the ability to draw high-confidence conclusions.
  2. Transit Method Insights: Deepened understanding of the transit method and its application in detecting and characterizing exoplanets.
  3. Critical Evaluation: Developed the ability to assess data quality critically and identify limitations in observational setups.
  4. Future Improvements: Gained insights into the need for improved data collection strategies, such as using space-based telescopes, to overcome atmospheric limitations.

Future Directions

  1. Enhanced Observations: Conduct additional observations of WASP-2b under improved weather conditions or with space-based telescopes.
  2. Methodological Refinements: Develop advanced algorithms to handle low signal-to-noise data and improve the detection of weak transit signals.
  3. Comparative Studies: Extend the methodology to other exoplanets to validate the findings and explore the diversity of planetary systems.

Report

Project ReportDownload

Presentation