Project Overview
Planet Hunters TESS is a citizen science astronomy project where students analyze real brightness data collected by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission to help discover exoplanets orbiting distant stars. Student contributions support ongoing research in planetary science and space exploration.
Learning Outcomes
- Understanding exoplanets and planetary systems
- Exposure to real NASA space mission data
- Development of analytical and pattern-recognition skills
- Introduction to space data analysis techniques
- STEM and astronomy career awareness
Student Activities
- Analyze star brightness graphs and light curves
- Identify possible exoplanet transit signals
- Observe patterns in stellar data
- Participate in exoplanet discovery activities
- Submit findings through the research platform
Eligibility
- • Middle school to high school students
- • Beginner-friendly participation
- • Suitable for science clubs and astronomy programs
Program Duration
- • Flexible and self-paced participation
- • Can be conducted as workshops or ongoing programs
- • Suitable for short-term or long-term engagement
Participation Process
1
School/student registration
2
Introduction to exoplanet discovery methods
3
Access to TESS mission datasets
4
Students begin analyzing light curve data
5
Findings submitted to the project platform
Resources Provided
- NASA TESS mission datasets
- Online exoplanet analysis platform
- Astronomy tutorials and guides
- Research participation materials
- Mentor and activity support
Deliverables / Outputs
- Exoplanet candidate classifications
- Student participation records
- Data analysis activity reports
- Observation and research summaries
Recognition & Certification
- Participation recognition
- Exposure to NASA exoplanet research initiatives
- Opportunity to contribute to real exoplanet discoveries
School Benefits
- Introduces students to modern space exploration research
- Enhances STEM and astronomy learning
- Encourages curiosity-driven scientific investigation
- Strengthens innovation-focused academic programs
Spaceadhyaan Support
Exoplanet discovery orientation sessions
Student onboarding and guidance
Astronomy mentorship support
School activity coordination
Let Students Discover New Worlds Beyond Our Solar System
Enable students to work with real NASA space mission data and participate in the search for exoplanets through Planet Hunters TESS.