Exoplanet Science Strategy

The past decade has delivered remarkable discoveries in the study of exoplanets. Hand-in-hand with these advances, a theoretical understanding of the myriad of processes that dictate the formation and evolution of planets has matured, spurred on by the avalanche of unexpected discoveries. Appreciation of the factors that make a planet hospitable to life has grown in sophistication, as has understanding of the context for biosignatures, the remotely detectable aspects of a planet's atmosphere or surface that reveal the presence of life. Exoplanet Science Strategy highlights strategic priorities for large, coordinated efforts that will support the scientific goals of the broad exoplanet science community. This report outlines a strategic plan that will answer lingering questions through a combination of large, ambitious community-supported efforts and support for diverse, creative, community-driven investigator research. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Scientific Goals 2 The State of the Field of Exoplanets 3 Outlining the Exoplanet Science Strategy 4 Implementing the Exoplanet Science Strategy 5 Opportunities for Coordination between Organizations and for Cooperation with Industrial and International Partners 6 Timeline for the Exoplanet Science Strategy Appendixes Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: White Papers Appendix C: Exoplanet Detection Methods Appendix D: Biosignature Table Appendix E: Committee and Staff Biographical Information Appendix F: Acronyms Appendix G: Glossary