[Baps] Kaltenegger Talk: 4pm Thurs CfA Colloquium

[Sarah Stewart-Mukhopadhyay]

Thursday May 17, 4pm
Phillips Auditorium, Center for Astrophysics


"Spectral Fingerprints of Earth-Like Exoplanets"
Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger
CfA

Abstract: In a famous paper, Sagan analyzed a spectrum of the Earth taken by
the Galileo probe, searching for signatures of life. They concluded that the
large amount of O2 and the simultaneous presence of CH4 traces are
suggestive of biology. In this talk we discuss the biomarkers at different
wavelengths and focus on what makes a habitable planet, using Earth as our
example. We discuss surface, clouds and biosignature evolution over
geological time. We look at biomarkers on planets around different stars,
and set the measurements in context with physical characteristics of a
planet. The search for signs of life implies that we need to gather as much
information as possible in order to understand how the observed atmosphere
works physically and chemically. How do we find them? How do we pick our
targets? We live in an exciting time when comparative planetology is a
reality, and the spectroscopic detection of life's signatures on worlds
orbiting other stars maybe achievable within a generation.

http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/events/calendar/latest.html
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