Star-planet interactions and habitability: Radiative effects

Abstract

Our current vision of habitable planets depends not only on the intrinsic properties of the planet such as bulk terrestrial composition, but on the characteristics of its host star. In general terms, high stellar energy radiation (X rays and extreme ultraviolet) can erode the planetary atmosphere, far and near ultraviolet drive the atmospheric chemistry, and visible and infrared fluxes control the planetary climate. Some cross overs exist, for example, the haze formation is produced by ultraviolet light and impacts the atmospheric temperature profile of the planet. This chapter outlines how stellar radiation influences the habitability potential of exoplanets.