Exoplanet and Life beyond Solar System

In this key Science, NARIT searches for and studies of exoplanets, planets outside the solar system. NARIT is collaborating with major exoplanet exploration programs using NARIT telescope network. In order to understanding exoplanetary systems, researches on the systems’ properties such as physical properties of exoplanetary host stars, exoplanetary atmospheres and exomoons, have been performed. We also initiate Astrobiology in Thailand to looking for origin of life.

Research Study Guideline

Exoplanet detection

Exoplanet Discovery via Transit Method : The transit method is a technique used to detect the decrease in a star's brightness as a planet passes in front of it. In recent years, the discovery of exoplanets using this method has grown significantly. At NARIT, we support this research using our facilities, including the 2.4-meter and 1-meter telescopes, Thai Robotic Telescopes (TRTs), and the 0.7-meter telescope at regional observatories across Thailand.

Transit Timing Variation (TTV) : In addition to studying exoplanet transits, our focus also includes TTV analysis to identify signals from additional planets in the transit light curves. This method has proven effective in discovering new exoplanets. By measuring variations in the mid-transit times of these light curves, additional planets within a planetary system can be detected.

Microlensing exoplanet detection

Circumbinary exoplanet and exomoon detections

Influence of Stellar Magnetic Activity : The detection of exoplanets, particularly those resembling Earth, remains a significant challenge. The intense magnetic activity of host stars, characterized by phenomena like starspots and flares, can obscure the subtle signals from these distant worlds. Our research focuses on understanding and mitigating the impact of stellar magnetic activity on exoplanet detection.

Exoplanet characterization

Exoplanet Atmosphere Characterization using Transmission Spectroscopy : This technique is one of the most effective methods for studying planetary atmospheres, as it measures how transit depth changes with wavelength. To advance research in this area, our study combines variations in transit depth from optical to near-infrared wavelengths to investigate the chemical composition of the planetary atmosphere.

Molecules in Planetary Atmospheres : Our team uses high-resolution spectroscopy to identify individual molecules in exoplanet atmospheres by analyzing their unique spectral fingerprints. This enables us to determine the chemical composition of the atmospheres and uncover details about their structure and dynamics, such as wind patterns and temperature variations. This information is crucial for understanding the planet's environment and assessing its potential habitability.

Fundamental Properties of Exoplanet Host Stars : Understanding the properties of exoplanet host stars is essential for accurately interpreting observations of their orbiting planets. Our research team employs a multi-faceted approach, combining high-resolution spectroscopy, photometry, and machine learning techniques to delve into the physical properties and chemical composition of these stars. This allows us to refine exoplanet properties, investigate planet formation and evolution, and better evaluate habitability within a given exoplanetary system.

SETI

SETI specific searching area

SPEARNET

The Spectroscopy and Photometry of Exoplanet Atmospheres Research Network (SPEANET) is a collaborative initiative that employs a distributed network of telescopes to study exoplanetary atmospheres.