⏰ when
When was the first direct image of an exoplanet taken?
Quick Answer
In 2004, astronomers obtained the first widely accepted direct image of an exoplanet, 2M1207 b.
The Full Story
The first widely accepted direct image of an exoplanet was taken in 2004 of 2M1207 b, a planet orbiting a brown dwarf. The object was observed with the Very Large Telescope in Chile. Direct imaging is difficult because stars are vastly brighter than their planets, so this was a major technical breakthrough. The result marked an important step toward photographing planets far beyond our Solar System.
Key Facts
1.First widely accepted direct image: 2004
2.Planet: 2M1207 b
3.Observed with the Very Large Telescope
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The first time humans actually saw another world directly."
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