A transit search for extrasolar planets

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One of the most exciting astronomical research areas to emerge recently is the discovery of planets outside our solar system. Whether other Earths exist, and whether they possess life, remains unanswered for now, but important technological advances, including new Australian innovations, move us steadily towards answering potentially the most important scientific question of all time. Significant progress is possible at relatively low cost. This project will use a dedicated, automated, ultra-precise telescope in NSW to find a large number of extra-solar planets eclipsing their host stars. During transit, detailed observations can reveal fundamental planetary properties, including atmosphericic signatures for life.