Kepler's Unparalleled Exploration of the Time Dimension

TL;DR

This paper highlights Kepler's unique capability in long-term observation of eclipsing binary stars, especially those with periods over a year, crucial for understanding habitable zones and complex stellar systems.

Contribution

It demonstrates Kepler's suitability for studying long-period binaries and hierarchical systems, emphasizing the importance of continued observations for astrophysical insights.

Findings

Kepler can effectively study binaries with periods >1 year.

Continued observations improve understanding of hierarchical multiple systems.

Enhanced orbital parameters for circumbinary planets are achievable.

Abstract

We show that the Kepler spacecraft in two-reaction wheel mode of operation is very well suited for the study of eclipsing binary star systems. Continued observations of the Kepler field will provide the most enduring and long-term valuable science. It will enable the discovery and characterization of eclipsing binaries with periods greater than 1 year - these are the most important, yet least understood binaries for habitable-zone planet background considerations. The continued mission will also enable the investigation of hierarchical multiple systems (discovered through eclipse timing variations), and provide drastically improved orbital parameters for circumbinary planetary systems.