Abstract

Contributed Talk - Splinter Exoplanets

Wednesday, 20 September 2017, 14:05   (HS1)

SPP1992: Exploring the Diversity of Extrasolar Planets

¹A. Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics, TU Berlin, and Institute for Planetary Research,DLR

One of the most exciting recent discoveries in astronomy is the existence of a huge variety of extrasolar planets orbiting other stars. Exoplanets can be very different to those found in our Solar System, and range from the so-called ``Hot Jupiter'' and ``mini-Neptune'' gas planets to large rocky planets (``super-''Earths). In 2016 the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(DFG)accepted a proposal for a Priority Program (SPP 1992) which aims to explore such diversity and understand its origins. The SPP will make substantial contributions to answering the following fundamental questions: What does the diversity of exoplanets tell us about their formation processes and the evolution of planets and planetary systems? What can we learn about the astrophysical conditions necessary to harbour life and are these conditions common in our Milky Way? During 2017 the SPP is being implemented and will start with its kick-off meeting in early 2018. The talk will give an overview about the planned activities in the first funding period.