Fruits of the Universe – The mystery of the origin of planets

by Prof. Barbara Ercolano (LMU)

Thursday 30 Jan 2014, 12:30 → 13:00 Europe/Berlin

Foyer, 1st floor (Excellence Cluster Universe)

The mystery of the origin of planets According to the current paradigm, planet formation comes for free together with star formation. However, the detailed physics governing this formation process is quite complex and demands huge efforts on both sides, in theoretical physics as well as in astronomical observations. Since about two decades, we know that our solar system is not unique, and meanwhile many exoplanets have been found – also thanks to space-based missions like Kepler. Theorists have to use supercomputers to simulate the physical processes, e.g. in the framework of radiative hydrodynamics. Astrophysicist Barbara Ercolano will introduce this modern and fascinating field of astronomy and tell us if there is another earth out there. The audience is cordially invited to discuss and comment. During this 30-minutes lunch event, we will serve drinks and fingerfood. Venue: Cluster building, Foyer 1st floor, Boltzmannstr. 2, Garching