Detecting Magnetospheric Radio Emission from Giant Exoplanets

Abstract

As radio astronomy enters a golden age, ground-based observatories are reaching sensitivities capable of unlocking a new and exciting field of exoplanet observation. Radio observation of planetary auroral emission provides unique and complementary insight into planetary science not available via orthodox exoplanet observation techniques. Supplying the first measurements of planetary magnetic fields, rotation rates, and orbital obliquities, we gain necessary and crucial insight into our understanding of the star–planet relationships, geophysics, composition, and habitability of exoplanets. Using a stellar-wind-driven Jovian approximation, we present analytical methods for estimating magnetospheric radio emission from confirmed exoplanets. Predicted radio fluxes from cataloged exoplanets are compared against the wavelengths and sensitivities of current and future observatories. Candidate exoplanets are downselected based on the sky coverage of each ground-based observatory. Orbits of target exoplanets are modeled to account for influential orbit-dependent effects in anticipating time-varying exoplanet radio luminosity and flux. To evaluate the angular alignment of exoplanetary beamed emission relative to Earth’s position, the equatorial latitude of exoplanetary auroral emission is compared against Earth’s apparent latitude on the exoplanet. Predicted time-dependent measurements and recommended beamformed observations for ground-based radio arrays are provided, along with a detailed analysis of the anticipated emission behavior for τ Boo b.