Strategy for the Detection and Study of Other Planetary Systems and Extrasolar Planetary Materials : 1990-2000

This volume addresses a new opportunity in the planetary sciences?to extend our exploration outward to discover and study planetary systems that may have formed or are forming around other stars. It concludes that a coordinated program of astronomical observation, laboratory research, theoretical development, and understanding of the dynamics and origins of whatever may be found would be a technologically feasible and potentially richly rewarding extension of the study of bodies within the solar system. Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1. Introduction2. Basic Scientific Goals3. Present Understanding of the Origin of Planetary Systems4.

Observations of Extrasolar Planetary and Protoplanetary Material5.

Observational Requirements for Identification ofExtrasolar-System Planets6.

Future Investigations of Precursor Planetary Systems7.

Relation to Other Astronomical and Astrophysical Studies8.

RecommendationsAppendix A: The Large Star Sample Required for a PhotometricPlanetary SearchAppendix B: List of Members, Commission on Physical Sciences,Mathematics, and Resources