Planetary Candidates Observed by Kepler V: Planet Sample from Q1-Q12 (36 Months) (1501.07286v2)

Abstract: The Kepler mission discovered 2842 exoplanet candidates with 2 years of data. We provide updates to the Kepler planet candidate sample based upon 3 years (Q1-Q12) of data. Through a series of tests to exclude false-positives, primarily caused by eclipsing binary stars and instrumental systematics, 855 additional planetary candidates have been discovered, bringing the total number known to 3697. We provide revised transit parameters and accompanying posterior distributions based on a Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm for the cumulative catalogue of Kepler Objects of Interest. There are now 130 candidates in the cumulative catalogue that receive less than twice the flux the Earth receives and more than 1100 have a radius less than 1.5 Rearth. There are now a dozen candidates meeting both criteria, roughly doubling the number of candidate Earth analogs. A majority of planetary candidates have a high probability of being bonafide planets, however, there are populations of likely false-positives. We discuss and suggest additional cuts that can be easily applied to the catalogue to produce a set of planetary candidates with good fidelity. The full catalogue is publicly available at the NASA Exoplanet Archive.

• The paper refines the exoplanet candidate catalog through rigorous analysis of 36 months of Kepler data using MCMC methods.
• The paper details a robust vetting process that distinguishes genuine planetary transits from false positives, doubling the count of Earth analog candidates.
• The paper’s expanded catalog provides critical insights for follow-up observations and advances models of planet formation and evolution.

Analysis of Planetary Candidates from Q1-Q12 Data

The research conducted by Rowe et al. presents an updated catalog of exoplanet candidates observed through 36 months of data, spanning the first 12 quarters of the mission. This work builds upon previous catalogs and extends the existing database with additional candidates, employing rigorous methodologies to ensure the fidelity and robustness of the findings.

The primary goal of this paper is the systematic identification and vetting of potential exoplanets from the mission's extensive dataset. The paper meticulously details the processes involved in distinguishing genuine planetary signals from false positives, which can often arise from eclipsing binary stars or instrumental artifacts. The analysis has led to the discovery of additional planetary candidates, increasing the total known candidates to a significant number.

Key to this endeavor is the use of a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm, which provides a robust statistical framework for estimating transit parameters and their uncertainties. This statistical approach allows for a refined understanding of the transit signals and aids in correctly identifying Earth-like exoplanets. Moreover, the methodological advancements presented here allow for nuanced assessments of the transit light curves of the planetary candidates, which is critical for accurate radius and flux determination.

The paper's most notable numerical outcomes include an increase in the catalog of candidates within the habitable zone, doubling the count of candidate Earth analogs. This expanded catalog is imperative for understanding stellar and planetary distributions and influences the estimation of occurrence rates of Earth-like planets around solar analogs.

The implications of this research are manifold. Practically, the increased catalog size and enhanced vetting processes expand the frontier of known planetary types and configurations, offering more targets for follow-up observations and increasing the chances of discovering habitable worlds. Theoretically, this research aids in refining models of planet formation and evolution, particularly around stars similar to our Sun.

Despite the substantial achievements, the paper acknowledges the presence of likely false positives within the catalog. By suggesting additional filters and analytical strategies, the authors enhance the ability to carefully curate a list of high-fidelity planetary candidates. This meticulous approach ensures the catalog remains a vital resource for the exoplanet research community and aids in directing future exploration efforts efficiently.

Looking forward, the expanding catalog of exoplanetary candidates promises exciting developments in the field of exoplanetology. As methodologies improve and more data becomes available, the precision of our understanding of planetary environments beyond our solar system is likely to increase, supporting the broader goal of discovering potentially habitable planets.

This comprehensive approach to catalog updating, which balances technical rigor with practical applications, represents a critical step in the ongoing exploration and understanding of our galaxy’s exoplanetary systems. The public availability of the full catalog in the NASA Exoplanet Archive enhances collaborative research efforts, ensuring that the data can be leveraged for a wide range of investigative purposes across the scientific community.