The benefits of space missions in detecting transits of exoplanets: the CHEOPS and PLATO projects

Abstract

The benefits of space missions when searching exoplanets via the transit method are numerous. This was first demonstrated by the French-led mission CoRoT. ESA ́s first Small Mission project CHEOPS is building on this experience. CHEOPS operates since end 2019 and produces exciting results based on high-precision measurements of planetary radii of known exoplanets. Following this, the PLATO mission will search for new transiting planets to further explore our knowledge on the diverse nature of planets. PLATO will focus on small planets in the habitable zone of solar like stars, thereby closing a knowledge gap in the detection of these fascinating objects.