Bulk abundances of exo-planetesimals

The goal of this project is to measure the bulk abundances of exo-planetesimals from the analysis of optical and ultraviolet spectroscopy of white dwarfs that show photospheric contamination by planetary debris. The project will use data from the DESI, SDSS-V and WEAVE surveys to identify suitable systems, and, where necessary obtain follow-up spectroscopy. The analysis will involve computing model atmospheres and synthetic spectra using a state-of-the-art atmosphere code. The resulting abundances will be assembled into a data base, which will then serve to carry out a statistical analysis, and the ultimate objective is to assess if the solar system is typical in its composition, and if there some planetary systems that exhibit an exotic make-up.