Speaker
Description
We present the detailed characterisation of TOI-837 b, a transiting exoplanet orbiting a 35 +/- 5 Myr star. Utilising an integrative approach combining TESS photometry, ground-based observations, and HARPS spectroscopy, this study presents the precise determination of TOI-837b's radius, mass, and (a relatively high) density. Given the precise age estimate of the system, we can estimate that the planet’s density is indicative of a substantial core comprising 60% of the planet's total mass. This composition and density are unexpected for a planet of this age and are in tension with evolutionary models. As TOI-837b emerges as a cornerstone in exoplanet science, this research highlights the critical need for high-precision stellar parameters and age determination to unlock the mysteries of planet formation and evolution. With PLATO on the horizon, TOI-837b exemplifies the profound impact that precise stellar ages can have on exoplanet characterisation.
