Constraining the composition of rocky exoplanets using stellar spectroscopy
Although several extrasolar planets have been detected in the last decade around solar-type stars, we are still unable to measure their chemical composition. This project aims to constrain the composition of rocky exoplanets, which is fundamental not only to assess the habitability of exoplanets and constrain their bulk properties, but also to understand the process of planet formation.
Currently, there is no direct method to measure the composition of rocky exoplanets. Instead, white dwarfs that have accreted planetary material, a.k.a. polluted white dwarfs, provide a unique opportunity to study exoplanet geology. Through the spectral analysis of their atmosphere, we can measure the composition of exoplanets, element by element. Moreover, under certain circumstances, we can even understand how the planetary composition relates to that of their host star.