Welcome!
My name is Michael Cecil. I am currently a PhD student working with Dr. Mario Flock at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in the field of planet formation theory and modelling.
About MeFeatured Research
My research focuses on the structure and evolution of protoplanetary disks, multi-faceted and complex systems consisting of interstellar gas and dust, revolving around newborn stars. Ultimately, these disks are the cradles of planets such as our very own Earth and therefore represent an important puzzle piece in answering the age-old question:
Where do we come from?
(In)stability and evolution of the inner disk and its consequences for planetary formation conditions (PhD project)
The inner rim of protoplanetary disks is an elusive and complex, yet highly exciting component of the planetary cradle. Its closeness to the central star(s) presents challenges for both observations and long-term modelling. Irradiation by the star results in high temperatures and ionisation, giving rise to dust sublimation, turbulence, and instabilities, which may influence the formation and migration of planets and planetesimals.
Read MoreThis simulation shows the dynamic behaviour of the inner rim of protoplanetary disks in terms of their temperature (upper panel) and density structure (lower panel). The inner disk region just beyond the dust sublimation front becomes unstable by the activation of the magneto-rotational instability (MRI) in the optically thick, dense material. The consequential runaway heating effect drives ionisation fronts, making the inner disk highly turbulent. This periodic phenomenon reshapes the density- and pressure structure of the the inner disk and manifests itself as observable episodic outbursts of accretion onto the central star.
The influence of photoevaporation on the evolution of protoplanetary disks
Protoplanetary disks typically survive for several million years before dispersing. Photoevaporation of disk material contributes significantly to this process and also affects disk structure, stellar spin evolution, and planetary composition. This project investigates the interplay between long-term disk evolution and photoevaporation in shaping planetary systems.
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