CHEOPS: Exoplanet Characterization Mission

This lecture by the instructor, a professor for astrophysics and physics, delves into the details of the CHEOPS mission, the first small mission in ESA's Science Program. The lecture covers the challenges faced in proposing a scientific mission within budget and time constraints, the unique approach of CHEOPS in characterizing exoplanets, the technical aspects of measuring the radii of exoplanets with high precision, and the collaborative efforts involved in building the satellite. The lecture also discusses the observational strategy of CHEOPS, the competitive process for allocating observing time, and the potential for extending the mission. Furthermore, the lecture highlights the educational initiatives associated with CHEOPS, aimed at promoting science and space exploration among school children.