Work

Spectra and Diagnostics for the Direct Detection of Wide‐Separation Extrasolar Giant Planets

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: We calculate as a function of orbital distance, mass, and age the theoretical spectra and orbit-averaged planet/star flux ratios for representative wide-separation extrasolar giant planets (EGPs) in the optical, near-infrared, and mid-infrared. Stellar irradiation of the planet's atmosphere and the effects of water and ammonia clouds are incorporated and handled in a consistent fashion. We include predictions for 12 specific known EGPs. In the process, we derive physical diagnostics that can inform the direct EGP detection and remote sensing programs now being planned or proposed. Furthermore, we calculate the effects of irradiation on the spectra of a representative companion brown dwarf as a function of orbital distance.

Source: The Astrophysical Journal

DOI: 10.1086/420974

Authors: Adam Burrows, David Sudarsky, Ivan Hubeny

Institutions: University of Arizona, Goddard Space Flight Center

Language: English

Topic: Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Award: AN ASTRONOMICAL SEARCH FOR THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIEN TS OF LIFE: PLACING OUR HABITABLE SYSTEM IN CONTE