First atmospheric spectroscopy of Earth-sized exoplanets

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the first atmospheric spectroscopy of Earth-sized exoplanets, specifically TRAPPIST-1b and TRAPPIST-1c, and the implications of these findings for future astronomical observations. It touches on the capabilities of current and upcoming telescopes in studying exoplanet atmospheres.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the Hubble telescope has confirmed the absence of a large hydrogen/helium atmosphere around TRAPPIST-1b and TRAPPIST-1c, which is seen as a positive confirmation.
  • There is mention of the proximity of the TRAPPIST-1 star, which is only 40 light years away, and its characteristics that make it suitable for atmospheric studies.
  • Some participants express excitement about the potential of upcoming telescopes like JWST, E-ELT, GMT, and TMT to further investigate exoplanet atmospheres.
  • One participant questions the current status of a proposed starshade technology that could assist in finding Earth-like planets, indicating uncertainty about its funding and development.
  • Another participant reflects on the lack of recent updates regarding the starshade concept, suggesting a need for more information on its viability.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the significance of the findings from Hubble and the potential of future telescopes, but there is uncertainty regarding the status and funding of starshade technology, indicating a lack of consensus on that topic.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the current inability of Hubble to detect specific gases like ozone, water vapor, or methane, and the ongoing uncertainty about the funding and development of starshade missions.

Who May Find This Useful

Astronomy enthusiasts, researchers in astrophysics, and those interested in exoplanet studies may find this discussion relevant.

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The Hubble telescope lead to the first spectroscopy of the atmospheres of two Earth-sized exoplanets, TRAPPIST-1b and TRAPPIST-1c. A large hydrogen/helium atmosphere could be ruled out - not that surprising, but still nice to have this confirmed.

The main star, TRAPPIST-1, is just 40 light years away and significantly smaller and cooler than our sun, and the two planets transit it as seen from Earth. Ideal viewing conditions to study how the sunlight gets absorbed or scattered by the atmosphere.

Hubble is not sensitive enough to search for gases like ozone, water vapor, or methane, but it can help to find candidates that can be investigated further with the upcoming better telescopes - JWST in space, and E-ELT*, GMT and TMT on the ground.

*the E-ELT will have as much mirror surface as the 20 largest existing telescopes combined.

Further details:
University website
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature18641.html
 
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It has been around as idea for a while, but I don't think there is any sunshade mission that got significant funding.
 
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