Analytic, dust-independent mass-loss rates for red supergiant winds initiated by turbulent pressure

Context. Red supergiants are observed to undergo vigorous mass loss. However, date, no theoretical model has succeeded in explaining the origins of these objects’ winds. This strongly limits our understanding red supergiant evolution and Type II-P II-L supernova progenitor properties. Aims. We examine role that atmospheric turbulence may play initiating determining mass-loss rates stars. Methods. analytically numerically solve equations conservation momentum, which we later couple an temperature structure, obtain theoretically motivated rates. then compare state-of-the-art empirical rate scaling formulae as well observationally inferred supergiants. Results. find pressure due characteristic turbulent velocities for is sufficient explain objects absence normally employed opacity from circumstellar dust. Motivated by this initial success, provide a first fully analytic prescription conclude highlighting some intriguing possible implications future studies stellar evolution, especially light lack direct dependence on metallicity.