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In a new study, a team led by researcher Dimitra Atri of the Center for Space Science at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) presented the process of analyzing flare emissions data from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) observatory. By calculating the erosion rates of planetary atmospheres, they identified which stars are most likely to host habitable exoplanets.
Scientists have found that more frequent and lower energy flares significantly affect an exoplanet’s atmosphere than less frequent higher energy flares. They also determined how different types of stars produce extreme ultraviolet (XUV) radiation through stellar flare and how nearby planets are affected.
Atri said, “This research provides new insight into the habitability of exoplanets, as the effects of stellar activity were not well understood. This study also highlights the need for better numerical modeling of atmospheric escape – how planets release atmospheric gases into space – as it can lead to the erosion of the atmosphere and diminished habitability of the planet. “
“Given the proximity of exoplanets to host stars, it is essential to understand how space weather events linked to those stars can affect the habitability of the exoplanet. The next step of the research would be to expand our dataset to analyze stellar flares from a wider variety of stars to see the long-term effects of stellar activity and to identify more potentially habitable exoplanets. “
Journal reference:
- Royal Astronomical Society: Letters Monthly Notices (2020). DOI: 10.1093 / mnrasl / slaa166
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