Young M-dwarfs flare activity model: Towards better exoplanetary atmospheric characterisation
Abstract
Context. Stellar flares can significantly influence the atmospheres and habitability of orbiting exoplanets, especially around young and active M dwarfs. Understanding the temporally and spectrally resolved activity of such stars is essential for assessing their impact on planetary environments. Aims. We aim to examine in detail state-of-the-art concepts of flare models to identify what is missing in our understanding of energy deposition during the flare event. By comparing synthetic and observed flare spectra, we seek to determine the modelling frameworks best suited for representing flare energetics and spectral far-ultraviolet features while providing a foundation for investigating flare impacts on exoplanet atmospheres. Methods. In this work, we built the Young M dwarf flare (YMDF) model utilising the combination of radiative-hydrodynamic (RHD) stellar atmosphere models with a high- and low-energy electron beam and corresponding synthetic observables. These models are based on physical principles and were validated with solar and stellar observations. Results. The newly developed YMDF model reproduces the observed continuum rise in both the TESS photometric band and the FUV-A spectral range. Furthermore, the flare distributions generated within this framework show consistency with those observed in our sample of stars. Conclusions. We have developed the YMDF model as a tool to reproduce the time-dependent spectra of flaring young M dwarfs, providing a physically motivated description of their spectral and temporal evolution during flare events.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Stellar
planetary
and galactic studies
Solar and Space Plasma Dynamics
Astronomy and Astrophysical Research
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Springer Link (Chiba Institute of Technology)
- Publication date
- 16 January 2026
- Language
- EN