Microlensing Technique (IMAGE) U.S. National Science Foundation Caption Microlensing works by using the gravity of the near star (shown in the bottom left), and its orbiting planets as a lens, magnifying light from a background star. By studying how the complex patterns of magnified light change as the near star and the two planets of planetary system moves in front of the distant star (top right), we can determine the properties of the planets and their star. Credit KASI - CBNU - ARCSEC Usage Restrictions can only use image if it include the acronyms KASI - CBNU - ARCSEC License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.