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Paper: M-Type Stars as Hosts for Habitable Planets
Volume: 430, Pathways Towards Habitable Planets
Page: 515
Authors: Odert, P.; Leitzinger, M.; Hanslmeier, A.; Lammer, H.; Khodachenko, M. L.; Ribas, I.
Abstract: Several planets orbiting M dwarfs have been discovered during the last years. However, it is still a matter of debate if these numerous, low-mass stars could be suitable hosts for habitable planets. Many M stars exhibit high levels of activity (high XUV fluxes, powerful flares etc.) during extended periods of time that could be harmful to the evolution of life. To address this topic we are compiling a catalog of nearby M dwarfs that could be suitable targets for habitable planet searches. It will include all data necessary to characterize the stars and to derive their fundamental properties. Special attention is turned towards data related to their activity (e.g., X-ray/EUV emission, and associated data like rotation periods). These data allow us to estimate important stellar characteristics (e.g., ages, flare rates, mass-loss rates) that could have a major impact on planets inside the habitable zone. Here we summarize the current status of this work.
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