Series: Astronomy Colloquium
Date: Wednesday 05-May-2021
Time: 15:00-16:00 (3:00-4:00 pm)
Location: NOTE: SPECIAL TIME-Zoom
Speaker: Dr. Andrew Winter (Heidelberg University)
Title: Links between star and planet formation: Disentangling the known exoplanet population
The exotic range of known planetary systems has provoked an equally exotic range of physical explanations for their diverse architectures. However, numerous empirical and theoretical studies are converging on the idea that the observed planet population is not a directly inherited from formation processes in a protoplanetary disc of dust and gas. Both internal and external mechanisms can perturb a planetary system from its 'natural' formation configuration. In this talk, I first review evidence for the role of environment in the formation and evolution of planetary systems. I then discuss how stellar host kinematics link to planetary system configurations. Finally, I show that factoring in this inhomogeneity in the origins of diverse planetary systems may help to unravel the problems in explaining their formation. In light of the possibility that a considerable fraction of planetary systems may be (internally or externally) perturbed, I conclude that simple models for their initial formation are worth revisiting.
Colloquia for the Fall 2020 semester will be held on zoom. Contact Dr. Leslie Sage for details.
Colloquium Organizer:
Dr. Leslie Sage
Special accommodations for individuals with disabilities can be made by calling (301) 405-3001. It would be appreciated if we are notified at least one week in advance.
