Discovery of Sub-Saturn Exoplanet Using PARAS-2 Spectrograph

Introduction to the Discovery

• Scientists at the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), India, have discovered a new dense exoplanet using the PARAS-2 Spectrograph at Mt Abu Telescope.
• The newly found exoplanet falls in the Sub-Saturn category, which is a transition region between Neptune-like and gas giant planets.

Understanding PARAS-2 Spectrograph

• PARAS-2 (PRL Advanced Radial velocity Abu Sky Search) Spectrograph is an advanced high-resolution fiber-fed spectrograph.
• It is designed to analyze light from distant exoplanets to determine their composition, atmosphere, and movement.
• It is currently Asia’s highest-resolution spectrograph, ensuring high precision and sensitivity.

Role of Spectrographs in Exoplanet Discovery

• A spectrograph is an instrument that breaks down light into its spectrum, helping scientists analyze planetary atmospheres, star compositions, and orbital patterns.
• Using Doppler shift measurements, scientists detect the presence of exoplanets by observing their influence on their host stars.

Significance of This Discovery

• This discovery expands our understanding of exoplanetary formation and evolution.
• It confirms that India’s advancements in astronomy and observational technology are competing at a global level.
• The Sub-Saturn exoplanet bridges the gap between Neptune-sized planets and gas giants, helping astronomers understand planetary classification and development.

Future Prospects

• The discovery paves the way for further space explorations and study of habitable exoplanets.
• The PARAS-2 Spectrograph will continue contributing to detecting new exoplanets with greater accuracy.
• This achievement strengthens India's position in global space research and its role in the search for Earth-like planets.