Grumpy software could speed hunt for new planets

摘要

Scolding software could speed the hunt for Earth-like planets by punishing robotic telescopes that don't perform as well as promised. Last week, astronomers reported spotting the first multiplanet system orbiting another star, thanks to a network of robotic telescopes dotted around the world (see p 17). Each telescope runs software that allows it to alert the entire network as soon as it spots something interesting. The telescopes then bid for the chance to carry out follow-up observations, citing their assessment of their equipment, position and availability.