Exoplanet characterization and the search for life: the astronomy and astrophysics decadal survey
Working paper
Title | Exoplanet characterization and the search for life: the astronomy and astrophysics decadal survey |
---|---|
Report Type | Working paper |
Authors | Kasting, James (Author) and Horner, Jonti (Author) |
Institution of Origin | National Research Council |
Number of Pages | 8 |
Series | Science White Papers (Astro2010) |
Year | 2009 |
Publisher | National Academies Press |
Place of Publication | Washington, DC. United States |
Web Address (URL) | http://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/0911/0911.2936.pdf |
Abstract | Over 300 extrasolar planets (exoplanets) have been detected orbiting nearby stars. We now hope to conduct a census of all planets around nearby stars and to characterize their atmospheres and surfaces with spectroscopy. Rocky planets within their star's habitable zones have the highest priority, as these have the potential to harbor life. Our science goal is to find and characterize all nearby exoplanets; this requires that we measure the mass, orbit, and spectroscopic signature of each one at visible and infrared wavelengths. The techniques for doing this are at hand today. Within the decade we could answer long-standing questions about the evolution and nature of other planetary systems, and we could search for clues as to whether life exists elsewhere in our galactic neighborhood. |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 510109. Stellar astronomy and planetary systems |
519999. Other physical sciences not elsewhere classified | |
510101. Astrobiology | |
Public Notes | Over 100 authors. |
Byline Affiliations | Pennsylvania State University, United States |
Durham University, United Kingdom |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q27ww/exoplanet-characterization-and-the-search-for-life-the-astronomy-and-astrophysics-decadal-survey
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