Dynamics of Extrasolar Planetary Systems

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AST 0507727Frederic RasioNorthwestern UniversityDynamics of Extrasolar Planetary SystemsABSTRACTA theoretical study of the dynamics and stability of extrasolar planetary systems will be conducted.The overall goal is a better understanding of the formation and evolution of planetary systemsaround other stars, particularly those in extreme environments. Special emphasis will be placed onmultiple planet systems, systems during stellar interactions, pulsar planet systems, and interactionsbetween planetary dynamics and the central star. Central to this work is the combination of orbitaldynamics and hydrodynamic methods in the simulations, as well as stellar evolution whereappropriate. Planned improvements include removing approximations in gravitational scattering andbetter treatments of tides and tidal heating (among others). The dynamics simulation toolsdeveloped here will also have application to many broader areas of astrophysics.The work here is part of a student-oriented research program in computational astrophysics whichwill be continued. A postdoctoral fellow will be supported and trained in numerical modeling aswell. The resulting animations will also be incorporated into public exhibitions and activities at thenearby Adler Planetarium.