Introductory description

The detection of planets orbiting stars other than the sun is technically challenging and it was not achieved until 1995. This module looks at how exoplanets are now being discovered in large numbers and how these discoveries are challenging existing theories of planet formation and evolution. Various methods of detection are considered, as well as methods used to determine physical properties such as temperature, density and composition. We explore likely physical explanations for the observed properties and identify questions that remain open in this active research field. Finally, we consider the prospects for detecting life on distant planets.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Geometry and contents of the Solar System; the interior, atmospheric composition and structure of the Solar System planets

Models of planet formation developed to explain the observed properties of the Solar System: accretion discs, dust coagulation, planetesimal formation, gas accretion, orbital evolution, disc evaporation

Challenges and opportunities presented by exoplanetary systems; Debris discs and protoplanetary discs

Observational techniques relevant to exoplanets: precision radial velocities, transits, microlensing, direct imaging, polarimetry, astrometry, Rossiter-McLaughlin effect, transmission spectroscopy

Physical properties of exoplanets: mass, radius, temperature, albedo, composition, irradiation, evaporation, meteorology, orbital orientation, dynamical stability

Challenges to planet formation theory: migration, evaporation, system geometry, free-floating planets. Future observational techniques: extreme adaptive optics, nulling interferometry

Conditions for life: definition of life, extremophiles, energy sources, carbon chemistry, water, habitable zone, alternative habitats; detection of extra-terrestrial life: in-situ measurements, atmospheric spectroscopy, biomarkers, planned space missions, Drake equation, SETI.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe the interior, atmospheric composition and structure of the Solar System planets
• Explain the experimental methods used to search for extra-solar system planets
• Explain the models being developed to describe exoplanets and discuss the open questions in the field
• Evaluate critically the prospects for the discovery of extra-terrestrial life

Indicative reading list

The module is based on the primary research literature and students are expected to read selected journal articles. In addition the following books are recommend for additional background:
R Dvorak (Ed.), Extrasolar Planets, Wiley-VCH;
I de Pater and JJ Lissauer, Planetary Sciences, CUP;
M Perryman, 2011, The Exoplanet Handbook, CUP;
Philip J. Armitage, Astrophysics of Planet Formation, CUP

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.

Transferable skills

Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study