F2 – Commission F2 Exoplanets and the Solar system

Description

The Commission C.F2 "Exoplanets and the Solar System" results from the merging of the previous commissions C16 (physical study of planets and satellites) and C53 (extrasolar planets).

Although extrasolar planets are detected and observed with different instruments and different techniques than the planets of the solar system, the physical properties of these objects have many aspects in common. The Commission promotes exchanges and interactions between the two communities.

In summary, the scientific activities and areas of expertise of the Commission members include:
- the search and characterization of exoplanets and their satellites,
- the investigation of solar system planets and their satellites,
- the observations and modeling related to the origin of the planets and planetary systems,
- the modeling of planetary atmospheres, surfaces and interiors,
- the laboratory work directly in support of such observational and theoretical investigations.

The high pace of discoveries in planetary and exoplanetary sciences leads to new debates and new questions, which were not anticipated. The commission gathers the required expertise in exoplanets, solar system planets and planetary systems, which is needed to address the issues raised by the astronomers or by the public about the discoveries, the nomenclatures, etc.

The Commission promotes all aspects of astronomy in the field of planets and planetary formation. With the impressive success of the interplanetary missions, and the discovery of exoplanets, the Commission can participate in the IAU public outreach activities.