Malena Rice, expert in planetary dynamics and detection techniques, discusses the hypothesis of Planet Nine, interstellar objects like Oumuamua and Borisov, propelling objects out of the solar system, rate calculation for object discovery, misalignment angles in exoplanet systems, and limitations of the rare Earth hypothesis.
The podcast explores the search for Planet 9 in the outer regions of our solar system and its potential implications for understanding our solar system compared to exoplanet systems.
The episode discusses the discovery and unique characteristics of the first known interstellar object, Oumuamua, and the upcoming Vera C. Rubin Observatory's potential to find more interstellar objects.
The podcast highlights the measurement and significance of the misalignment angle between a planet's orbit and its host star's spin, providing insights into exoplanet system dynamics and formation.
Deep dives
The Search for Planet 9
The podcast episode discusses the search for an enigmatic object called Planet 9 in the outer regions of our solar system. Planet 9 is hypothesized to explain the clustering of extreme trans-Neptunian objects, and its potential existence could shed light on the unique characteristics of our solar system compared to exoplanet systems. The episode explores the methods and challenges of searching for Planet 9, including using space telescopes like the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The upcoming Vera C. Rubin Observatory is also anticipated to contribute significant data to this search.
Interstellar Objects and Oumuamua
The podcast delves into the study of interstellar objects, focusing on the historic discovery of the first known interstellar object, Oumuamua. Interstellar objects are objects that come from outside our solar system and are detectable when they pass through our solar system. The episode highlights the uniqueness and intrigue of Oumuamua's characteristics, such as its elongated shape and unusual acceleration. The discussion also touches upon the upcoming Vera C. Rubin Observatory's potential to discover more interstellar objects and potentially provide insights into their origins and behavior.
Misalignment of Planets and Stellar Spin
The podcast explores the measurement and significance of the misalignment angle between a planet's orbit and its host star's spin. This misalignment angle provides insights into the dynamics and formation of exoplanet systems. The episode explains how the radial velocity technique, specifically the Rossiter-McLaughlin effect, allows scientists to measure this angle for hot Jupiters and potentially smaller planets as well. Two possible explanations for the misalignment are discussed: tilted protoplanetary disks during formation and dynamical scattering among planets within a system.
Borisov: The Second Interstellar Object
In 2019, Borisov was discovered as the second interstellar object. Unlike the first object, Oumuamua, Borisov resembled a comet from our solar system. This finding was strange because it was unexpected to have multiple large free-floating objects from outside the solar system. The occurrence rate of such objects remains uncertain, and the pandemic may have affected observations. The discovery of Borisov highlights the need for further study and raises questions about the population of interstellar objects.
Resonant Systems and Understanding Solar System Rarity
Resonant systems, where planets have synchronized orbits, offer insights into the architecture and frequency of planetary systems. While hot Jupiter systems are rare, resonant systems may provide a more pristine configuration. Studies of these systems show that some exhibit tilts similar to the solar system's 6-degree tilt. However, determining the rarity of the solar system is complex, as it depends on various factors and definitions of similarity. Further research is needed to understand the frequency and characteristics of different planetary configurations.
In this week's episode, David is joined by Prof Malena Rice from Yale University. Malena obtained her PhD from Yale University before heading to MIT for a year as 51 Pegasi fellow. She has recently returned to Yale, joining the astronomy faculty. Malena has been featured in Forbes Magazine's 30 Under 30 and is an expert in planetary dynamics and detection techniques. To support this podcast and our research lab, head to www.coolworldslab.com/support
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