box-least-squares

Detect periodic box-shaped dips in photometric time series using Astropy's BoxLeastSquares.

4|Updated Feb 22, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench --skill box-least-squares-generalreasoning
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: box-least-squares
Source: https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench/tree/main/exoplanet-detection-period/environment/skills/box-least-squares
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench --skill box-least-squares-generalreasoning

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Detects periodic box-shaped dips in photometric time series to reveal transiting exoplanets and eclipsing binaries.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Efficiently searches for transit-like events across a range of periods and durations using a box-shaped model.
  • Provides periodogram power, best-fit parameters (period, duration, transit time), and basic validation statistics.
  • Use Case: Analyze large datasets from surveys (e.g., Kepler, TESS) to flag transit candidates for follow-up.

Quick Start

Run a BLS search on your light curve data to identify the most likely transit period.

Frequently Asked Questions about box-least-squares

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is a BLS periodogram and how does it detect exoplanet transits?▼

A BLS periodogram detects periodic box-shaped dips in photometric time series to reveal transiting exoplanets. It searches light curve data across configurable period and duration grids to fit a box-shaped transit model and identify candidate events.

How do I search a light curve for transiting exoplanets using Astropy?▼

You can search a light curve for transiting exoplanets by running a BLS periodogram on your photometric time series. The process uses Astropy's BoxLeastSquares to scan configurable period ranges and output best-fit parameters like period, duration, and transit time.

Can I use BLS transit detection on large photometric survey datasets from TESS or Kepler?▼

Yes, BLS transit detection is designed to analyze large photometric survey datasets from missions like TESS and Kepler. It efficiently searches time series data across a range of periods and durations to flag initial transit candidates for follow-up validation.

What validation statistics does a box least squares search provide for transit candidates?▼

A box least squares search provides periodogram power, best-fit parameters including period and duration, and basic validation statistics. These outputs help assess the reliability of transit-like events detected in the photometric time series.

What is the best way to find eclipsing binaries in astronomical time series data?▼

The best way to find eclipsing binaries in astronomical time series data is applying a BLS periodogram. It detects periodic box-shaped dips in photometric observations, effectively identifying both transiting exoplanets and eclipsing binary systems.

When should I not use a box least squares periodogram for transit detection?▼

You should not use a box least squares periodogram when transit signals lack a box-shaped dip profile or when the photometric time series has irregular cadence. BLS specifically fits box-shaped models, making it less effective for non-box-like stellar variability signals.