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 ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Scientific Goals2 The State of the Field of Exoplanets3 Outlining the Exoplanet Science Strategy4 Implementing the Exoplanet Science Strategy5 Opportunities for Coordination between Organizations and for Cooperation with Industrial and International Partners6 Timeline for the Exoplanet Science StrategyAppendixesAppendix A: Statement of TaskAppendix B: White PapersAppendix C: Exoplanet Detection MethodsAppendix D: Biosignature TableAppendix E: Committee and Staff Biographical InformationAppendix F: AcronymsAppendix G: Glossary