Hannah R. Wakeford
Papers
1
Total Citations
9
H-Index
1
About
Hannah R. Wakeford is a leading exoplanet and stellar astrophysicist whose research focuses on the characterization of exoplanet atmospheres and the complex interactions between host stars and their planets. Her work is pivotal in understanding how stellar activity, particularly from young, active M dwarfs, can bias or inform our measurements of transiting exoplanets. A major contribution is her detailed quantification of the "transit light source effect," demonstrated in her highly cited 2024 study of AU Microscopii (AU Mic). Using high-resolution spectroscopy and multicolor photometry, she precisely measured spot temperature and coverage on this active, 24-million-year-old M dwarf, providing critical context for interpreting the atmospheres of its two transiting sub-Neptunes, AU Mic b and c. This work, which has already garnered significant attention, is essential for disentangling stellar contamination from genuine planetary signals. With a growing citation record and a reputation for rigorous, multi-wavelength analysis, Wakeford is a key figure in preparing for the next generation of exoplanet characterization with JWST and other observatories.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1