We begin this ambitious project by focusing on modeling efforts to answer a simple question: What is the abiotic composition of atmospheres for the most common planet in the galaxy (sub-Neptunes), and the smaller rocky planets?
Key experiments and observations will validate the models to better answer the questions posed in the current framework.
Our goal
We will establish a general framework for understanding the abiotic atmospheres of sub-Neptunes and rocky planets by combining solid planet expertise with atmospheric expertise. Our goal is to link exoplanetary atmospheric observations to the solid planet below as well as to the evolution of the planetary body. By unraveling the intricacies of these connections, we hope to eventually open the door to the reliable detection of life beyond Earth.
interdisciplinary science
The AEThER team brings together theorists, experimentalists, observers, planetary scientists, astronomers, and Earth scientists for a holistic approach to understanding the baseline abiotic atmosphere of planets.
