Jones, Kathryn Dawn (2024). It’s just a phase! Signals from exoplanets in the optical and infrared regime. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern
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Abstract
In this thesis, we explore exoplanet climates using space-based observations, with a particular focus on hot Jupiters. These giant, gas-rich planets, which orbit close to their stars, offer unique opportunities to study extreme atmospheric conditions. By combining new data from missions like CHEOPS and TESS with advanced theoretical and numerical models, this work provides critical insights into the atmospheric dynamics of these worlds. We investigate how light interacts with exoplanet atmospheres—through reflection, transmission, and emission—unveiling the underlying physical and chemical processes in action. A major contribution of this thesis is the development and application of the catwoman transit model, which interprets asymmetric light curves shaped by the complex limb structures of exoplanets. By utilising full-phase curve models, including transit models, we extract two-dimensional thermal and scattering properties of planetary atmospheres while precisely constraining key system parameters. Additionally, this research breaks new ground by modelling the opposition surge effect on exoplanets, using Solar System objects as analogues to enhance our understanding of how light interacts with different planetary surfaces and atmospheres. This work continues to expand the limits of both observational and modelling techniques, advancing our ability to study the climates of Earth-like planets and moving us closer to answering profound questions about habitability in our Universe.
| Item Type: | Thesis |
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| Dissertation Type: | Cumulative |
| Date of Defense: | 13 December 2024 |
| Subjects: | 500 Science > 520 Astronomy 500 Science > 530 Physics |
| Institute / Center: | 08 Faculty of Science > Physics Institute 10 Strategic Research Centers > Center for Space and Habitability (CSH) |
| Depositing User: | Hammer Igor |
| Date Deposited: | 03 Feb 2025 11:03 |
| Last Modified: | 03 Feb 2025 11:03 |
| URI: | https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/5781 |
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