We are two high schoolers who would like to embark on a project to simulate the atmospheres of exoplanets.
More specifically, we would like to change the atmospheric composition of such planets. We have seen various climate models, such as CESM and PlaSim. Unfortunately, CESM appears to be quite complex, while the latter option doesn't have the resources we would need.
Are there any other simulators that may consistently do the same thing, but need lower computer specifications? Otherwise, are there any resources to become familiar with CESM at a high school level?
Furthermore, what would be the required specifications for running CESM on a fairly consistent basis? I have heard that you would need a cluster, but we currently do not have access to one. We may be able to rent one out, but we'd rather be familiar with CESM before we do.
Thank you!
EDIT: (for clarification) I know a bit of FORTRAN, and have access to help from a Physics instructor. Although I understand that it may be out of the reach of two high school students, is there any sort of "crash course", one could recommend on more advanced astronomical physics?
Furthermore, we are interested in a rocky exoplanet, and potentially have access to a cluster/help from a professor.
Thank you once again!