Space based microlensing planet searches

TL;DR

Space-based microlensing is a promising method for detecting and statistically characterizing exoplanets across the galaxy, complementing other missions like Kepler and ground-based surveys.

Contribution

This paper reviews the current status and future prospects of space-based microlensing for exoplanet detection, highlighting upcoming missions and their expected impact.

Findings

Microlensing has successfully detected exoplanets.

Next-generation space missions will enhance exoplanet census.

Ground-based networks are evolving to support space-based efforts.

Abstract

The discovery of extra-solar planets is arguably the most exciting development in astrophysics during the past 15 years, rivalled only by the detection of dark energy. Two projects unite the communities of exoplanet scientists and cosmologists: the proposed ESA M class mission EUCLID and the large space mission WFIRST, top ranked by the Astronomy 2010 Decadal Survey report. The later states that: "Space-based microlensing is the optimal approach to providing a true statistical census of planetary systems in the Galaxy, over a range of likely semi-major axes". They also add: "This census, combined with that made by the Kepler mission, will determine how common Earth-like planets are over a wide range of orbital parameters". We will present a status report of the results obtained by microlensing on exoplanets and the new objectives of the next generation of ground based wide field imager networks. We will finally discuss the fantastic prospect offered by space based microlensing at the horizon 2020-2025.