New Worlds: Evaluating terrestrial planets as astrophysical objects

TL;DR

This paper discusses a hierarchical modeling approach for terrestrial exoplanets, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary knowledge and developing the field to interpret observable characteristics and inform instrument design.

Contribution

It introduces a hierarchical modeling framework that addresses fundamental and complex behaviors of terrestrial exoplanets, promoting the development of the field.

Findings

Hierarchical modeling effectively captures diverse planetary behaviors.

Cross-disciplinary knowledge enhances model accuracy.

Framework supports instrument design and observational strategies.

Abstract

Terrestrial exoplanets are on the verge of joining the ranks of astronomically accessible objects. Interpreting their observable characteristics, and informing decisions on instrument design and use, will hinge on the ability to model these planets successfully across a vast range of configurations and climate forcings. A hierarchical approach that addresses fundamental behaviors as well as more complex, specific, situations is crucial to this endeavor and is presented here. Incorporating Earth-centric knowledge, and continued cross-disciplinary work will be critical, but ultimately the astrophysical study of terrestrial exoplanets must be encouraged to develop as its own field.