The Robo-AO KOI Survey: laser adaptive optics imaging of every Kepler exoplanet candidate

TL;DR

This survey used robotic adaptive optics to image all Kepler exoplanet candidates, identifying nearby stars that could affect planetary measurements and providing insights into planetary system formation.

Contribution

First comprehensive adaptive optics survey of all Kepler planet candidates, revealing nearby stars and their impact on planetary characterization.

Findings

14.5% of KOIs have nearby stars

479 nearby stars discovered among 3313 observations

Insights into planetary system formation and evolution

Abstract

The Robo-AO Kepler Planetary Candidate Survey is observing every Kepler planet candidate host star (KOI) with laser adaptive optics imaging to hunt for blended nearby stars which may be physically associated companions. With the unparalleled efficiency provided by the first fully robotic adaptive optics system, we perform the critical search for nearby stars (0.15" to 4.0" separation with contrasts up to 6 magnitudes) that dilute the observed planetary transit signal, contributing to inaccurate planetary characteristics or astrophysical false positives. We present 3313 high resolution observations of Kepler planetary hosts from 2012-2015, discovering 479 nearby stars. We measure an overall nearby star probability rate of 14.5\pm0.8%. With this large data set, we are uniquely able to explore broad correlations between multiple star systems and the properties of the planets which they host, providing insight into the formation and evolution of planetary systems in our galaxy. Several KOIs of particular interest will be discussed, including possible quadruple star systems hosting planets and updated properties for possible rocky planets orbiting with in their star's habitable zone.