The escape of heavy atoms from the ionosphere of HD209458b. II. Interpretation of the observations

Transits in the H I 1216 Å (Lyman α), O I 1334 Å, C II 1335 Å, and Si III 1206.5 Å lines constrain the properties of the upper atmosphere of HD209458b. In addition to probing the temperature and density profiles in the thermosphere, they have implications for the properties of the lower atmosphere. ... View More