• Data Challenge #1

Welcome to the WFIRST Exoplanets Data Challenge #1! The WFIRST mission is currently in Phase A, during which time the science and instrument performance requirements will be defined for exoplanet imaging and spectroscopy. In order to provide the project with the best possible inputs before the end of Phase A in 2017, we are seeking participation from teams with spectral retrieval expertise through the WFIRST exoplanets data challenge.

The Challenge will run from August 2016 to March 2017. The 2016 Challenge consists of a blind spectral retrieval exercise using simulated, extracted spectra for several known RV and/or hypothetical discovery exoplanets. The spectra will NOT need to be extracted from simulated IFS data. Instead, we will explore the impact of signal-to-noise ratio and spectral resolution on the detection/measurement of atmospheric abundances and other planet properties. Even with that relatively simple goal, we expect the Challenge to be non-trivial!

Sample spectra from Data Challenge #1. Shown are simulated spectra for three of the four exoplanets at the highest signal-to-noise and resolving power (top row) and at the lowest signal-to-noise and resolving power (bottom row)..

Incentive to Participate: While defining the first space-borne exoplanet imaging mission is hopefully its own compelling reason for doing this, to make this a little more fun the WFIRST Data Challenge Science Investigation Team is offering travel expenses and registration costs for one person on each team that fully completes the Challenge (all four planets, all SNR and R values, all requested retrieval outputs) to attend the 2017 WFIRST Science Meeting, or another exoplanets meeting of his/her choice (up to $2000).

Participation in the Challenge is contingent upon acceptance of terms which will be included in the invitation email.

If you wish to participate, please register and you will be sent an invitation.

If you have questions, please forward them to Margaret Turnbull and David Ciardi through the "Contact" link above.

We look forward to working with you this Fall!