Experimental Astrophysics and Exoplanetary Sciences

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The next decade presents a unique moment in the history of planetary astronomy. For the first time, we possess the technologies required to discover and characterize a wide range of exoplanetary systems (exoplanets) which may harbor true Earth analogs, those planets beyond the Solar System that may have the right surface condition for life to strive. The Canada Research Chair in Experimental Astrophysics and Exoplanetary Sciences will focus on studying of a wide variety of exoplanets, especially nearby temperate Earth-size planets potentially hosting biological activity, and enable the detection of biosignature gases such as water, oxygen, methane and carbon dioxide. This program will involve accurate mass measurements of transiting exoplanets using specialized ground-based high-resolution infrared spectrographs and will also include observing programs with the James Webb Space Telescope for probing their atmosphere with unprecedented sensitivity. The Chair will also contribute to the development of the next generation of powerful instruments on giant telescopes that will have the capability of detecting a biosignature. This project is a comprehensive, ambitious development plan to make the first steps towards what may be the most important scientific discovery of the 21st century: the first evidence of life beyond the Solar System.