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Astronomers announce exciting new discovery made with microlensing technique

Astronomers will announce exciting new findings about the universe made with the microlensing technique during a telephone news conference 10 a.m. EST, Wednesday, Feb. 13.

The research results announced during the conference also will appear in the Feb. 15 issue of Science.

(Please note that all information disclosed in this teleconference will remain embargoed until 2:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time Thursday, 14 February 2008.)

Funding for the study was provided by the National Science Foundation and NASA.

Participants in the conference are:

Scott Gaudi, lead author and assistant professor of astronomy, Ohio State University.
Andrew Gould, professor of astronomy, Ohio State University.
David Bennett, assoc. professor of physics, University of Notre Dame.
Michael Briley, program manager, National Science Foundation.

A question-and-answer period will follow the scientists' presentations.

Microlensing works by using the gravity of a near star and its orbiting planets as a lens to magnify light from a distant star. By studying how the complex patterns of magnified light change as the near star and its planets move in front of the distant star, astronomers can determine the properties of the planets and their star.

Callers within the United States can dial toll free: 1-888-282-9568; callers outside the United States can call the following toll number: 1-210-234-0005. All callers will be required to punch in passcode #4807081. Please notify Diane Banegas in advance at 703-292-4489 or send an email to dbanegas@nsf.gov if you plan to join the teleconference so there will be enough phone lines to accommodate everyone.

Supporting images and graphics will be available for download directly via the SciPak webpage (http://www.eurekalert.org/jrnls/sci/) from EurekAlert!'s password-protected section. Journalists may register at http://www.eurekalert.org/ or phone 202-326-6440 to gain access to the embargoed SciPak. A digital recording of the news conference will be available. Details for accessing the file will be given during the conference.

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