Simulations of hot gas planets atmospheres

Our simulations reproduce the temperature-pressure profile measured via sodium D absorption in HD 189733 b, but show still unexplained differences in the case of HD 209458 b. In contrast to general assumptions, we find that the gravitationally more tightly bound thermospheres of massive and compact planets, such as HAT-P-2 b are hydrodynamically stable. Compact planets dispose of the radiative energy input through hydrogen Ly alpha and free-free emission.

Radiative cooling is also important in HD 189733 b, but it decreases toward smaller planets like GJ 436 b. Computing the planetary Ly alpha absorption and emission signals from the simulations, we find that the strong and cool winds of smaller planets mainly cause strong Ly alpha absorption but little emission. Compact and massive planets with hot, stable thermospheres cause small absorption signals but are strong Ly{alpha} emitters, possibly detectable with the current instrumentation.

The absorption and emission signals provide a possible distinction between these two classes of thermospheres in hot gas planets. According to our results, WASP-80 and GJ 3470 are currently the most promising targets for observational follow-up aimed at detecting atmospheric Ly{alpha} absorption signals.