Exoplanet counter

Subject:

The discovery of exoplanets has sparked immense interest, both within the scientific community and among the public. The data collected by astronomers is available online via databases such as the Paris Observatory’s database.
Astronomers have so far ( 2026-10-07 22:35:33) .
In this activity, you will create a stand-alone electronic device capable of displaying in real time the number of objects currently recorded in the database.

Level: Secondary, High School

Duration: about 2 hours

Prerequisites:

Objectives:

  • Build an electronic device based on a Raspberry Pi Pico capable of displaying, in real time, the number of exoplanets listed on the Paris Observatory’s exoplanet.eu website, via a 7-segment display.
  • Learn how to use a microcontroller to process and display information.
  • Apply knowledge of electronics and physics to build a practical device.

This counter displays the number of confirmed exoplanet discoveries. The number of exoplanets is updated via an API (Application Programming Interface) with the Encyclopaedia of Exoplanetary Systems

Equipment required:

  • Equipment needed for a meter (approximate cost: €20)
    • Microcontroller Raspberry Pi Pico 2 WH
    • MAX7219 Module LED 8 bits with 7 segments for Raspberry Pi
    • Breadboard 400
    • Premium Jumper Cable Kit 40 X 150mm (male-to-male)
    • USB Type-A to Micro-USB Type-B cable
  • 1 Mains adapter
  • 1 Soldering iron
  • Computer with Thonny software
  • API access URL:

Subject, Appendices:

Authors: Ragepan Sivathasan, P.Y. Martin & Ulysse Chosson LIRA/UFE, Observatoire de Paris