Speaker
Description
The European Space Agency’s (ESA’s) CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite (CHEOPS) is the first space mission dedicated to the search for exoplanetary transits through high-precision photometry of bright stars already known to host planets. This mission enables precise radius measurements for small exoplanets (super-Earths and sub-Neptunes), mass determinations for systems with transit timing variations, and atmospheric characterisation of highly irradiated companions. Recent science highlights include the discoveries of the first-ever hints of a glory effect on an exoplanet, not one but two six-planet systems with resonant orbits, one of the most reflective atmospheres to-date, a rugby-ball-shaped hot Jupiter, phase curves of lava worlds, and even rings around trans-Neptunian objects. Having successfully completed its 3.5-year Nominal Mission, CHEOPS is now in the middle of its first 3.25-year Extended Mission, offering the scientific community even more opportunities to get involved and apply for observing time. Come discuss your ideas and submit your proposals!
