Exoplanet Physics

Exoplanets are planets that orbit stars other than our Sun.

This collection was developed by the Institute of Physics to help bring this new and exciting area of research into the classroom. It consists of five practical activities matched to the 11-14 curriculum.

Each of the activities is standalone, takes around 40 minutes to complete and can be used either in lessons or as part of a science club. Each offers plenty of opportunity for extension work and includes a taking it further section to allow students to build on what they have learnt through independent research.

They can also be used individually, or in combination, as the basis for a CREST Award (an enrichment scheme run by the British Science Association). One “pick-up and run” CREST research project idea is included. Others are available via http://www.iop.org/exoplanets.