How will scientists detect and study magnetic fields on distant planets in the coming decade? This robust report from the KECK Institute brings together the work of specialists in astrophysics, astronomy, planetary science, and computational math. It takes a deep dive into how magnetic fields are generated in planetary systems, how internal dynamos work, how astronomers expect to use radio emission technologies to detect exoplanet magnetic fields, and a look at planetary habitability through the lens of magnetic field. Great overview for teachers! Chapter 2 explores magnetic fields of planets in our Solar System and is appropriate for students.

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How do magnetic fields form on planets? Here's a free-access textbook section you can share with students, written by renowned astronomer Chris Impey, Distinguished Professor at the University of Arizona. According to Dr. Impey, the formation of a magnetic field "requires an electrical current in the interior of a planet". But two more things are also required, "an electrically conductive core and a significant rotation rate". Written in student-friendly language.

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Here's a burning question -- how do we detect a magnetic field on an Earth-sized exoplanet? The short answer is, "We're still working on it." This 2018 article published in Astronomy and Astrophysics provides a deep look into past failed attempts and predictions that the LOFAR large radio telescope in Europe will be the instrument to detect elusive magnetic fields in smaller exoplanets.

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