Exoplanet phase curves: observations and theory

TL;DR

This paper reviews observational techniques and theoretical understanding of exoplanet phase curves, highlighting challenges, physical mechanisms, and future prospects for studying the atmospheres of tidally locked exoplanets.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of current observations, physical models, and future mission potential for exoplanet phase curves, integrating theory and observations.

Findings

Current phase curve observations reveal atmospheric structures.

Physical mechanisms include heat redistribution and cloud effects.

Future missions will improve atmospheric characterization.

Abstract

Phase curves are the best technique to probe the three dimensional structure of exoplanets' atmospheres. In this chapter we first review current exoplanets phase curve observations and the particular challenges they face. We then describe the different physical mechanisms shaping the atmospheric phase curves of highly irradiated tidally locked exoplanets. Finally, we discuss the potential for future missions to further advance our understanding of these new worlds.