In order to conduct planet-measuring tests, there needs to be some standard for conducting those tests. The current model for conducting those types of tests is often called the Scientific Method:

1). Make an Observation

2). Ask a question.

3). Form a testable explanation (a hypothesis).

4). Make a prediction based upon that explanation.

5). Test the prediction.

6). Use the results to create future explanations and predictions.

Now, there are some steps that are missing from the above but are generally accepted to be a valid part of the Scientific Method. One would be a "Step 1.5" which would be to perform research. In other words, has someone else already made the observation and performed a test? What did they find? Also, there is also what would be a "Step 5.5" which would be to communicate your results, which is often interpreted as the Peer Review process. Does someone else have any observations about the test, such as how it was conducted.

My overall question for this topic would be: Would the above be an acceptable method for performing any planet-measuring test? If not, what should be the acceptable method for performing planet-measuring tests?