Exoplanets UK Research Review

The most recent review of exoplanet research in the UK was undertaken by the exoplanets review panel, which was comprised of members of the Astronomy Advisory Panel and Solar System Advisory Panel, along with specialists working in this area.

The panel was convened to prepare and provide advice to the science board on an updated strategy for the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).

The full panel membership comprised as follows:

  • Professor Paul O’Brien (Chair) (University of Leicester)
  • Dr Chris Arridge (Lancaster University)
  • Dr Stephen Lowry (University of Kent)
  • Professor Richard Nelson (Queen Mary University of London)
  • Professor Don Pollacco (University of Warwick)
  • Dr David Sing (University of Exeter)
  • Professor Giovanna Tinetti (University College London)
  • Dr Chris Watson (Queen’s University Belfast)

STFC support from:

  • Sharon Bonfield
  • Michelle Cooper
  • Colin Vincent.

Review process

The Exoplanet Review Panel sought initial input from the community via a questionnaire and community meeting which was held on 11 December 2014 at University College London. This meeting provided an opportunity for the panel to share the main conclusions arising from the recent community questionnaire and to discuss the current strengths of the field in the UK and to identify future needs and opportunities. One-page summary papers relating to future projects in this field were also invited.

Following on from this, the panel prepared a draft report, which was made available for community comment. The key findings were also presented at the UK Exoplanet Meeting held on 30 March – 1 April 2015 at the University of Warwick.

The report was submitted to Science Board in April 2015.

Read the final version of the report and terms of reference.

Last updated: 31 March 2022

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