This research investigates the tilt of exoplanets to understand their formation and evolution. By developing a new measurement method, it identifies a Uranus-like tilted planet and enables broader study of planetary systems. These insights help reveal climates, histories, and potential habitability of distant worlds beyond our solar system.

Directly imaging Earth-like exoplanets is one of astronomy’s greatest challenges. Using GLINT, an interferometric instrument on the Subaru Telescope, this research cancels overwhelming starlight to reveal faint nearby planets—paving the way toward discovering another “pale blue dot” and possibly a second Earth.

This project develops a 200-metre space reflector antenna using a modular “LEGO-like” assembly system. Designed for compact launch and robotic construction, it enables stronger, higher-quality interstellar communication. The work also models structural behaviour during assembly and could support building other large space structures, advancing deep-space exploration.

This research investigates “zombie stars” — reanimated white dwarf systems formed through stellar interactions in binary star systems. By analyzing large-scale brightness variations across the Milky Way, the work identified hundreds of these rare objects, providing new insights into stellar evolution, galactic history, and the future lifecycle of stars in our universe.

My talk explains how neutron stars—extremely dense remnants of stellar explosions—contain matter we cannot study on Earth. By analyzing gravitational waves from colliding neutron stars, the speaker models how their deformation (or “squishiness”) reveals their internal composition. This method may uncover entirely new forms of matter and transform fundamental physics.

The researcher studies how clouds on distant exoplanets affect their climates and potential for life. Working with NASA, they model how exotic materials—like iron or sapphire clouds—absorb and reflect light. They found particle shape greatly influences temperature and habitability, helping determine whether alien worlds could support liquid water and life.