Research

Abstract: This study investigates TOI 3873.01, an extra-solar planet candidate that was discovered by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, or TESS for short. Despite TESS having significantly contributed to exo-planet research, very little to no prior research has been done on this object. Data reduction techniques such as flat and dark calibration were used in AstroImageJ to produce scientific images; along with aperture photometry[1] and light curve analysis. The findings suggest that a hot Jupiter exoplanet orbits the star UCAC4 801-022341, supporting TOI 3873.01’s exoplanet status. The calculated ESM of this exoplanet exceeded the projected threshold for exoplanets deemed qualified for JWST spectroscopic follow-up. This study contributes to the growing body of exoplanet research and demonstrates the value of follow-up observations for TESS candidates. The confirmation and characterization of TOI 3873.01 will hopefully add to the diverse understanding of exoplanets and make help guide future discoveries for potentially habitable worlds outside the solar system.