re: Exoplanet properties...
Based on Marcy's initial data several years ago I'd 'predicted' here these same eventual conclusions...elliptical planetary orbits the norm, our solar system atypical. The Star Trek 'life is everywhere' contingent took strong exception. The odds of TPF as presently proposed of finding ANY Earthlike planet within its 40-50 LY range is very close to zero. Kepler will add badly needed statistical data on the occurance of terrestrial type planets within stars' liquid water zones.
-p (blind squirrel found an acorn)