Stellar Keys to Exoplanetary Worlds:
Virtual community discussion for a DFG Priority Program proposal
Understanding how exoplanets and their atmospheres evolve is a major goal in German and international research roadmaps. It has become clear that exoplanets cannot be understood without taking into account their stellar environment. In turn, exoplanets themselves can be used as probes for stellar phenomena that would otherwise remain inaccessible. It is time for a research initiative in Germany that combines the existing deep expertise in the physics of cool stars with the pressing questions of exoplanet research.
After a one-year pause by DFG in accepting proposals for Priority Programs (Schwerpunktprogramm, SPP), we now plan to submit an SPP proposal to DFG in October 2026. A programme committee has been established for this effort, consisting of Katja Poppenhäger, Juan Cabrera, Saskia Hekker, Laura Kreidberg, and Markus Roth. The focus of this SPP is envisioned to tackle the stellar-exoplanetary connection, i.e. research questions in which the star is of fundamental importance to understand the exoplanet, or vice versa.
We invite the exoplanetary and stellar community in Germany to actively contribute to shaping the scientific scope of the SPP through a virtual community meeting on March 5th, 2026 (10:00–12:00 CET). Originally planned as an in-person event in connection with the PLATO meeting in January, the community exchange will now take place virtually due to the postponement of that meeting.
During the meeting, we will present the envisioned framework of the SPP proposal, explain the “mechanics” of the SPP funding scheme, address community questions, and lay the groundwork for future project collaborations. The discussion will focus on identifying key scientific questions for the coming years, highlighting areas where close collaboration between the stellar and exoplanet communities is essential, and clarifying mutual expectations. The format will include moderated breakout discussions, so that the discussions directly inform the scientific scope and structure of the planned SPP proposal.
Community input form
We invite community input to help shape the scientific scope of the SPP. The form also serves as the official registration for participation in the virtual community meeting; input is welcome even if you cannot attend.
→ Provide input here & register for meeting: https://forms.gle/AWffYneDQNU1kero6
