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EP: Fachverband Extraterrestrische Physik

EP 2: Arne Richter Lecture and invited talks

EP 2.3: Hauptvortrag

Dienstag, 19. März 2019, 12:30–13:00, HS 19

The diversity of exoplanet interiors — •Caroline Dorn — University of Zurich

Over the past decades, planet characterization has become a main focus in exoplanetary science. The increasing number of newly discovered extrasolar planets reveal a remarkable diversity in planet sizes and mean densities. Among the most frequently occurring planets are super-Earths and mini-Neptunes, which lack a counterpart in the Solar System. The distribution of interior types among super-Earths and mini-Neptunes is largely unknown.

The challenge in determining planetary interior stems from the fact that data are limited and data uncertainties are large. In a good scenario, both planet mass and radius can be determined. However, very different interiors can be modelled from identical mass and radius. In order to draw meaningful conclusions about a planetary interior, it is therefore mandatory to rigorously quantify interior parameter degeneracy, to carefully select prior knowledge on possible interiors, and to search for additional constraints that can be made available. I will review the state-of-the-art interior characterization and highlight main achievements in finding exotic and less exotic worlds.

It is our understanding of planet formation and evolution that will greatly benefit from more detailed characterized distributions of interior types.