Leiden University Scholarly Publications

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Mesquita, A.L. (2022)

Exploring the interactions of M dwarf winds and cosmic rays

Doctoral Thesis
This thesis focus on the interaction between M dwarf stellar winds and Galactic cosmic rays and the possible effects on the habitability of exoplanets. We use numerical simulations to describe the stellar winds of M dwarfs using observable constraints, such as the mass-loss rate, X-ray luminosity, and magnetic field strength/flux. Additionally, we use numerical simulations to describe the propagation of Galactic cosmic rays within M dwarf planetary systems. With these simulations, we can calculate the flux of Galactic cosmic rays reaching exoplanet magnetospheres/atmospheres. Measuring cosmic ray fluxes in exoplanet atmospheres is yet not possible, but cosmic rays are an important ingredient in the context of planetary habitability. For this reason, quantifying these fluxes is essential to complete the habitability “puzzle”. Future exoplanet atmosphere observations with space telescopes, such as the JWST and the ARIEL, will enable us to constrain cosmic ray fluxes in exoplanet...Show moreThis thesis focus on the interaction between M dwarf stellar winds and Galactic cosmic rays and the possible effects on the habitability of exoplanets. We use numerical simulations to describe the stellar winds of M dwarfs using observable constraints, such as the mass-loss rate, X-ray luminosity, and magnetic field strength/flux. Additionally, we use numerical simulations to describe the propagation of Galactic cosmic rays within M dwarf planetary systems. With these simulations, we can calculate the flux of Galactic cosmic rays reaching exoplanet magnetospheres/atmospheres. Measuring cosmic ray fluxes in exoplanet atmospheres is yet not possible, but cosmic rays are an important ingredient in the context of planetary habitability. For this reason, quantifying these fluxes is essential to complete the habitability “puzzle”. Future exoplanet atmosphere observations with space telescopes, such as the JWST and the ARIEL, will enable us to constrain cosmic ray fluxes in exoplanet atmospheres.
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Low-mass stars
M dwarfs
Stellar winds
Cosmic rays
Planetary systems
All authors
Mesquita, A.L.
Supervisor
Vidotto, A.A.
Co-supervisor
Rodgers-Lee, D; Snellen, L.A.G.
Committee
Röttgering, H.J.A.; Viti, S.; Helling, C.; Taylor, A.M.
Qualification
Doctor (dr.)
Awarding Institution
Leiden Observatory, Faculty of Science, Leiden University
Date
2022-10-25