Giant planet evolution with MESA
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The evolution of gaseous planets is a complex process influenced by various physical parameters and mechanisms. In this study, we present critical modifications to the Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics ( MESA ) code to enhance its applicability to giant planet modeling. We introduce an equation of state specifically tailored for materials at planetary conditions. The equation of state considers the thermodynamic properties of hydrogen-helium mixtures and heavy elements, improving the accuracy of internal structure calculations. We also present modifications to the radiative opacity to allow the modeling of grains, clouds and opacity windows. Furthermore, we refine the treatment of convective mixing processes in MESA to better replicate convective mixing with the presence of composition gradients. Finally, we add a treatment for helium rain and settling. These modifications aim to enhance the predictive capabilities of MESA for giant planet evolution and are publicly available. We hope that these improvements will lead to a deeper understanding of giant planet evolution in the Solar System and beyond.
DOI: 10.5167/uzh-292228
Authors: Helled, Ravit, Müller, Simon, Knierim, Henrik
Language: English
Topic: Astro and Planetary Science
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7130680817
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: