Date of Graduation
12-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Physics (MS)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Physics
Advisor/Mentor
Kennefick, Julia
Committee Member
Lehmer, Bret
Second Committee Member
Singh, Surendra
Keywords
M-dwarfs; Stellar Flares; TESS
Abstract
Low-mass stars account for more than 70% of stars within our galaxy. Their ob?servational interest can be attributed to their smaller radius and luminosity, making them ideal for detecting terrestrial planets inside their habitable zones. These magnetically active stars produce frequent stellar flaring events that can impact the atmospheric composition of nearby planets and interfere with the prebiotic processes for carbon-based life. Using TESS optical data, I have detected, measured astrophysical properties, and modeled the behavior of 44 flares from two low-mass stars: TIC 144217628 and Proxima Centuari. Given similar observational periods, Proxima Cen has shown to produce larger amplitudes but less ener?getic flares than TIC 144217628. Additionally, Proxima Cen’s flare frequency distribution suggests that the star is emitting ultraviolet radiation that meets the theoretical threshold for prebiotic chemistry.
Citation
Holloway, C. E. (2025). Characterizing Stellar Flares on Low-Mass Stars TIC 144217628 and Proxima Centauri using Transiting Exoplanet Space Satellite (TESS) Optical Data. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/5988
