Dynamic meteorology at the photosphere of HD 209458b

Curtis S. Cooper, Adam P. Showman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

167 Scopus citations

Abstract

We calculate the meteorology of the close-in transiting extrasolar planet HD 209458h using a global, three-dimensional atmospheric circulation model. Dynamics are driven by perpetual irradiation of one hemisphere of this tidally locked planet. The simulation predicts global temperature contrasts of ∼500 K at the photosphere and the development of a steady superrotating jet. The jet extends from the equator to midlatitudes and from the top model layer at 1 mbar down to 10 bar at the base of the heated region. Wind velocities near the equator exceed 4 km s-1 at 300 mbar. The hottest regions of the atmosphere are blown downstream from the substellar point by ∼60° of longitude. We predict from these results a factor of ∼2 ratio between the maximum and minimum observed radiation from the planet over a full orbital period, with peak infrared emission preceding the time of the secondary eclipse by ∼14 hr.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)L45-L48
JournalAstrophysical Journal
Volume629
Issue number1 II
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 10 2005
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Atmospheric effects
  • Methods: numerical
  • Planets and satellites: general
  • Planets and satellites: individual (HD 209458b)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

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