The fates of planetary systems

Abstract

Astronomers have now discovered many thousands of exoplanets orbiting stars other than the Sun. Stars evolve with time as they burn through their supply of nuclear fuel, and this drives changes in the star, first to expand in size to become a giant, and then to cast off their outer layers to become a white dwarf. These changes to the star have significant effects on the planets orbiting them, their orbits, as well as the stability of a whole planetary system. I will describe these effects, and discuss what can be learned by the study of remnant planetary systems orbiting white dwarfs, which in particular can provide unique insights into the elemental composition of planets and asteroids beyond our Solar System.

Alexander Mustill's profile in the Lund University Research Portal

Mötesplats Rydberg - online scientific seminars

The Department of Physics continuously organises open seminars on current science where an invited researcher presents his or her ongoing research in physics or another field of science. The seminars are usually held on Tuesdays at 15.15-16.00 in the Rydberg lecture hall at the department. It´s also possible to participate online. The seminars are called Mötesplats Rydberg after the internationally renowned Lund physicist and mathematician Janne Rydberg (1852–1919).

Online seminar

Join Mötesplats Rydberg in Zoom