This module provides an introduction to the topics of detection and characterisation of planets orbiting stars other than the Sun. Current theories of planetary formation and evolution are also reviewed. Until 25 years ago, planets of our Solar System were the only known bodies orbiting a star. Today we know that on average every star in the Galaxy has at least one planet. Exoplanets present a diversity in their physical parameters that it is not observed in the Solar System. This present new challenges to modern Astrophysics in order to answer questions about planet formation and evolution, and about the uniqueness of our Solar System in the Galaxy. 
This module is for those students interested in acquiring an understanding of the field through the knowledge of observational and data analysis techniques used, the interpretation of the experimental evidences, and by reviewing current theories of planet formation and evolution.

Aims:
To introduce the theoretical concepts of planet formation and evolution
To describe our Solar System as a reference case
To discuss current research in exoplanetary science
To describe the main challenges arising from exoplanetary observations
To introduce observational and statistical methods applied to the detection of exoplanets and remote sensing of their atmospheres
To describe the current and future astronomical facilities for the detection and characterisation of the exoplanet population in the Solar System neighbourhood