Looking for Life on Other Planets

13:37, November 17, 2017

UrFU scientists are collecting data for statistical analysis of exoplanet systems

Despite the fact that Russia is, in a way, behind the rest of the scientific community in terms of exoplanet studies, we have the opportunity to reduce this gap, says Vadim Krushinsky, a leading specialist at the Kourovka Astronomical Observatory of Ural Federal University.

“Relatively low-budget programs for the search for exoplanetary systems (like the “KPS”, a pilot project of UrFU’s Kourovka Observatory) will make it possible to take the first step in and facilitate the collection of data for statistical analysis,” says Mr. Krushinsky. “High-precision photometric measurements can be done using the equipment at hand, which allows us to search for atmospheres on some exoplanets. Spectral observations during transits and secondary eclipses are relatively available for the largest telescopes in Russia. To start these programs, you need to find interested people and pay for their work, and invest in equipment.”

At the moment, the scientists are modelling and interpreting the observed effects.

 “This can be both theoretical work and experimental research of the behavior and properties of samples in space conditions and comparison with the observed effects. For this purpose, it is necessary to create a unit that simulates the conditions of outer space. As samples, meteorites from UrFU’s collection can be used”, adds researcher Anton Vasyunin.

UrFU scientists are now working on a project to study protoplanetary matter in the far space, the solar system and on Earth. It is one of the six breakthrough scientific projects of the University, carried out by one of the the Strategic Academic Units – the Institute of Natural Sciences and Mathematics UrFU – together with academic and industrial partners from Russia and other countries.

The researchers’ success will directly influence the University’s positions in national and international rankings, especially rankings by subjects.

• More info on the project on N+1 (in Russian)