Astrospheric modelling

Project Description: 

With various upcoming spacecraft missions we soon will be on the verge of detecting and characterizing Earth-like exoplanetary atmospheres for the first time. These planets are most likely to be found around smaller and cooler K- and M-type stars. However, recent observations showed that their radiation environment might be much harsher than that of the Sun. Thus, the exoplanets are most likely exposed to an enhanced stellar radiation environment, which could affect their habitability, for example, in the form of a hazardous flux of energetic cosmic ray particles. Knowing the stellar radiation field and being able to model the radiation exposure on the surface of a planet, is crucial to assess its habitability. In order to do this, we need to first calculate the astrospheric bubble created by the interaction of a stellar wind with the surrounding interstellar medium. This is done by solving the well-known magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) equations. Once we have such a calculated magnetized plasma environment, we can calculate the cosmic ray background radiation within by solving a cosmic ray transport equation. For this project the student will use these models in various degrees of complexity to calculate specific astrospheres and cosmic ray particle transport within. (NWU)

Supervisor

North-West University (NWU)

Co-Supervisor