October 24-28, 2016

Abstract

Exoplanet Syzygy: A Star, A Planet, and an Infrared Space Telescope

David Charbonneau (Harvard University)

When exoplanets pass in front of or behind their stars, we are granted unprecedented opportunities to study the chemical composition and physical conditions of their atmospheres. Space is the natural venue from which to undertake these studies. However, previous efforts with Spitzer and HST have been photon starved, and have not granted sufficient spectral resolution and wavelength coverage. Based on the results from the Kepler Mission, we know that the optimal transiting exoplanets for atmospheric study have yet to be identified. I will first discuss the strategies and timescales for finding them, and then I'll show SNR realizations of mock observations, and discuss how JWST will allow penetrating insights into alien skies.

Invited review