Astronomy Colloquium

Tiffany Kataria, Jet Propulsion Laboratory

New Insights into the Chemistry and Dynamics of Exoplanet Atmospheres

Since the first discoveries of exoplanets in the 1990s, theoretical studies have set out to predict the physical properties of these extreme worlds. While major strides have been made with the Spitzer and Hubble Space Telescopes as well as ground-based facilities, JWST is now allowing us to move beyond 1D atmospheric profiles and decode these systems in full 3D. In this talk, I will present efforts to understand the advective, radiative, and chemical processes shaping exoplanet atmospheres using General Circulation Models (GCMs). I will share new insights gained from JWST observations of transiting, close-in exoplanets, highlighting phase-resolved observations of the hot Jupiters HD 189733b and HD 80606b. Finally, I will discuss prospects for future space-based frontiers that will help bridge the gap between planet formation, climate, and habitability.