Atmospheric Characterisation with the Twinkle Space Telescope Following Advances from JWST Observations

TL;DR

Twinkle is a space telescope designed for spectroscopic observations of exoplanets and solar system objects, with recent simulations showing its potential to enhance atmospheric characterization inspired by JWST data.

Contribution

This paper evaluates Twinkle's observational capabilities for exoplanet atmospheres using updated simulations and retrieval analyses, providing guidance for optimal observational strategies.

Findings

Twinkle can detect a range of atmospheric molecules depending on observing strategies.

Simulations show improved atmospheric parameter retrieval with increased observational investment.

Twinkle's capabilities are enhanced by recent JWST observations, informing future survey planning.

Abstract

The Twinkle Space Telescope is a satellite designed for spectroscopic observations of a wide range of extrasolar and solar system objects. Equipped with a 0.45 m diameter telescope and a spectrometer covering from 0.5 to 4.5 {\mu}m simultaneously, Twinkle will be launched in a sun-synchronous, low-Earth orbit, and it is expected to operate for seven years. Twinkle is developed, managed and operated by Blue Skies Space (BSSL), a space science data company whose vision is to accelerate and expand the availability of new, high-quality datasets to researchers worldwide, complementing the space-observatories delivered by government space agencies. Over its life-time, Twinkle will conduct large-scale survey programs. The scientific objectives and observational strategy of these surveys are defined by researchers who join the Science Team. Leveraging advances made possible by recent observations with the James Webb Space Telescope, we present here updated simulations evaluating Twinkle's observational capabilities in the context of exoplanet atmospheres. Through retrieval analyses of HD 209458 b, WASP-107 b, GJ 3470 b, and 55 Cnc e, we demonstrate how increasing observational investment enhances the retrieval of atmospheric parameters and molecular abundances. Our sensitivity study highlights Twinkle's capability to detect less abundant/detectable molecules depending on the observing strategies adopted. This work provides practical guidance for developing targeted observational strategies to maximize Twinkle's scientific return.