Institute for Advanced Study Informal Astrophysics Seminar

ABSTRACT: I present the results of atmospheric general circulation modelling experiments for Earth-like planets in tidally locked configurations. The factors controlling the atmospheric circulation, which transports heat from the day side to the night side, are analyzed in light of basic scaling arguments and the mechanistic understanding that has been developed in the study of Earth's atmosphere. Inspired by habitability implications, I examine the simulated surface climate for a range of rotation periods and solar constants.