Title:
Around the world in less than two days: observing the spectral phase curve of an ultra-hot Jupiter with JWST/NIRSpec
Agreement Number:
24JWGO3A03
Agreement Value:
$85,954.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 12, 2025 - Mar 1, 2027
Description:
Using the NIRSpec instrument on the JWST, this project will be monitoring the ultra-hot Jupiter WASP-76b as it completes a full orbit around its host star to paint an accurate picture of the atmosphere's chemical composition. Ultra-hot Jupiters like WASP-76b feature extreme temperature differences between their permanent day and night sides, which makes the interpretation of observations more complicated. To address this, the planet's full 3D temperature structure and cloud cover will be measured. This will provide a detailed understanding of WASP-76b's atmospheric chemistry and its formation history – ultimately shedding light on the question why ultra-hot Jupiters exist at all.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Montreal, Quebec, CA H3C 3J7
Reference Number:
003-2024-2025-Q4-00014
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
University of Montreal
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.