In trying to discover a planet near Uranus that might explain its orbital discrepancies, what is the first step scientists should take?

The first step in the process of discovering a planet near Uranus to explain its orbital discrepancies is to calculate the mass, orbit, and likely position of the unidentified planet. This step is crucial because it allows scientists to use existing observational data to predict where the planet could be located based on its gravitational effects on Uranus and surrounding celestial bodies.

By analyzing the orbits and movements of Uranus, scientists can infer irregularities or discrepancies that might suggest the presence of an additional mass nearby. This theoretical framework can then be refined to estimate the potential characteristics of this unseen planet, guiding further observations and searches.

Before developing a hypothesis or making observations, it is essential to have a mathematical understanding of what the gravitational influences might be and where to look. This calculation-driven approach forms the backbone of scientific discovery, ensuring that efforts to find the planet are based on empirical evidence and logical deduction, rather than conjecture or random searching. While observing with telescopes or sending spacecraft are important steps in the broader investigation, they follow the foundational calculations that define the search parameters.