Roadmap Science Challenge

B:1. How common are planetary systems and is ours typical?



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Until very recently the only examples of planetary systems were those within our own Solar System, and whilst many speculated as to their existence beyond our Solar System, none had been seen. With the advent of new detection techniques over 500 extrasolar planets have now been discovered. Whilst these numbers will continue to rise, we have yet to understand if planetary systems are truly common throughout the galaxy, and furthermore if any of these extrasolar planets are like ours.
 
 
 
 
 

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