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arXiv · 1307.1161

Flux and polarization signals of spatially inhomogeneous gaseous exoplanets

T. Karalidi·D. M. Stam·D. Guirado
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Abstract

We present numerically calculated, disk--integrated, spectropolarimetric signals of starlight that is reflected by vertically and horizontally inhomogeneous gaseous exoplanets. We include various spatial features that are present on Solar System's gaseous planets: belts and zones, cyclonic spots, and polar hazes, to test whether such features leave traces in the disk--integrated flux and polarization signals. Broadband flux and polarization signals of starlight that is reflected by gaseous exoplanets are calculated using an efficient, adding--doubling radiative transfer code, that fully includes single and multiple scattering and polarization. The planetary model atmospheres are vertically inhomogeneous and can be horizontally inhomogeneous, and contain gas molecules and/or cloud and/or aerosol particles.

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T. Karalidi, D. M. Stam, D. Guirado. 2013-07-03. Flux and polarization signals of spatially inhomogeneous gaseous exoplanets. https://doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361%2F201321492

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