Speaker
Description
In recent years, ALMA has revealed an astonishing variety of disk structures, though the precise relationship between these morphologies and planet formation remains elusive. A major challenge with ALMA is its limited sensitivity to larger dust grains (those approaching centimeter scales) which are crucial for understanding early stages of planet formation. Moreover, the common occurrence of optically thick emission at millimeter wavelengths complicates efforts to accurately determine dust properties and disk masses.
This work assesses how the SKA could overcome these observational limitations. By synthesizing data from both ALMA and VLA surveys we generate statistical forecasts for the SKA’s ability to conduct population studies of protoplanetary disks. Specifically, we evaluate detectability, resolvability, and the level of characterization achievable with SKA AA*. From an analysis of 400 known disks within 200 parsecs, our findings suggest that more than a half can be detected within a three-hour integration time, with two or three dozens of these offering sufficient spatial extent for detailed imaging in a reasonable telescope time.
We discuss how an initial survey using the SKA could significantly advance our knowledge of planet formation, particularly by constraining the total dust content, characterizing grain growth, and shedding light on other critical physical processes in disks. We also outline the enhanced capabilities expected from the forthcoming AA4 configuration and their implications for future studies.
| Topics | Cradle of Life & Our Galaxy |
|---|
