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Carl;
I think you're significantly under-valuing the research/modelling being done on this occasion.
Atmospheric modelling at the best of times (for Earth, even), is an extraordinarily complex undertaking.
These guys are developing a quantitative model for distant exo-planets, taking into consideration non-linearity aspects of fluid dynamics at different atmospheric depths.
Whilst I feel that all such atmospheric models are based on familiar conditions extrapolated from planet Earth experiences and hence, actual model parameters may end up varying significantly from assumed values, the models have significant atmospheric physical foundations.
These guys are no slouches in the intellectual department, as a cursory glance at their report reveals.
Their technique uses a comparison between two advanced, substantial models, as a measure of validation of the conclusions. Such an approach also suggests a depth of understanding of scientific methodologies, also.
Cheers
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