Abstract
Abstract Because of their activity, late-type stars are known to host powerful flares producing intense high-energy radiation on short timescales that may significantly affect the atmosphere of nearby planets. We employ a one-dimensional aeronomic model to study the reaction of the upper atmosphere of the hot Jupiter HD 209458b to the additional high-energy irradiation caused by a stellar flare. Atmospheric absorption of the additional energy produced during a flare leads to local atmospheric heating, accompanied by the formation of two propagating shock waves. We present estimates of the additional atmospheric loss occurring in response to the flare. We find the mass-loss rate at the exobase level to significantly increase (3.8 × 1010, 8 × 1010, and 3.5 × 1011 g s−1 for 10, 100, and 1000 times the high-energy flux of the quiet star, respectively) in comparison to that found considering the inactive star (2 × 1010 g s−1).
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
