ORCID Profile
0000-0002-1096-1433
Current Organisation
Université de Genève
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Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2023
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202244611
Abstract: Context. Transiting planets around young stars are key benchmarks for our understanding of planetary systems. One such candidate, TOI-179, was identified around the K dwarf HD 18599 by TESS. Aims. We present the confirmation of the transiting planet and the characterization of the host star and of the TOI-179 system over a broad range of angular separations. Methods. We exploited the TESS photometric time series, intensive radial velocity monitoring performed with HARPS, and deep high-contrast imaging observations obtained with SPHERE and NACO at VLT. The inclusion of Gaussian process regression analysis was effective to properly model the magnetic activity of the star and identify the Keplerian signature of the transiting planet. Results. The star, with an age of 400±100 Myr, is orbited by a transiting planet with period 4.137436 days, mass 24±7 M ⊕ , radius 2.62 −0.12 +0.15 R ⊕ , and significant eccentricity (0.34 −0.09 +0.07 ). Adaptive optics observations identified a low-mass companion at the boundary between brown dwarfs and very low-mass stars (mass derived from luminosity 83 −6 +4 M J ) at a very small projected separation (84.5 mas, 3.3 au at the distance of the star). Coupling the imaging detection with the long-term radial velocity trend and the astrometric signature, we constrained the orbit of the low-mass companion, identifying two families of possible orbital solutions. Conclusions. The TOI-179 system represents a high-merit laboratory for our understanding of the physical evolution of planets and other low-mass objects and of how the planet properties are influenced by dynamical effects and interactions with the parent star.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201731003
Abstract: Aims. In this paper we present the results of the SPHERE observation of the HD 284149 system, aimed at a more detailed characterisation of both the primary and its brown dwarf companion. Methods. We observed HD 284149 in the near-infrared with SPHERE, using the imaging mode (IRDIS+IFS) and the long-slit spectroscopy mode (IRDIS-LSS). The data were reduced using the dedicated SPHERE pipeline, and algorithms such as PCA and TLOCI were applied to reduce the speckle pattern. Results. The IFS images revealed a previously unknown low-mass (~0.16 M ⊙ ) stellar companion ( HD 294149 B) at ~0.1′′, compatible with previously observed radial velocity differences, as well as proper motion differences between Gaia and Tycho -2 measurements. The known brown dwarf companion ( HD 284149 b) is clearly visible in the IRDIS images. This allowed us to refine both its photometry and astrometry. The analysis of the medium resolution IRDIS long slit spectra also allowed a refinement of temperature and spectral type estimates. A full reassessment of the age and distance of the system was also performed, leading to more precise values of both mass and semi-major axis. Conclusions. As a result of this study, HD 284149 ABb therefore becomes the latest addition to the (short) list of brown dwarfs on wide circumbinary orbits, providing new evidence to support recent claims that object in such configuration occur with a similar frequency to wide companions to single stars.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 03-2020
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202037524
Abstract: Context. HD 13724 is a nearby solar-type star at 43.48 ± 0.06 pc hosting a long-period low-mass brown dwarf detected with the CORALIE echelle spectrograph as part of the historical CORALIE radial-velocity search for extra-solar planets. The companion has a minimum mass of 26.77 −2.2 +4.4 M Jup and an expected semi-major axis of ~240 mas making it a suitable target for further characterisation with high-contrast imaging, in particular to measure its inclination, mass, and spectrum and thus establish its substellar nature. Aims. Using high-contrast imaging with the SPHERE instrument on the Very Large Telescope (VLT), we are able to directly image a brown dwarf companion to HD 13724 and obtain a low-resolution spectrum. Methods. We combine the radial-velocity measurements of CORALIE and HARPS taken over two decades and high-contrast imaging from SPHERE to obtain a dynamical mass estimate. From the SPHERE data we obtain a low-resolution spectrum of the companion from Y to J band, as well as photometric measurements from IRDIS in the J , H , and K bands. Results. Using high-contrast imaging with the SPHERE instrument at the VLT, we report the first images of a brown dwarf companion orbiting the host star HD 13724. It has an angular separation of 175.6 ± 4.5 mas and an H -band contrast of 10.61 ± 0.16 mag, and using the age estimate of the star to be ~1 Gyr gives an isochronal mass estimate of ~44 M Jup . By combining radial-velocity and imaging data we also obtain a dynamical mass of 50.5 −3.5 +3.3 M Jup . Through fitting an atmospheric model, we estimate a surface gravity of log g = 5.5 and an effective temperature of 1000 K. A comparison of its spectrum with observed T dwarfs estimates a spectral type of T4 or T4.5, with a T4 object providing the best fit.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-07-2018
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202140366
Abstract: Context. One of the long-term goals of exoplanet science is the atmospheric characterization of dozens of small exoplanets in order to understand their ersity and search for habitable worlds and potential biosignatures. Achieving this goal requires a space mission of sufficient scale that can spatially separate the signals from exoplanets and their host stars and thus directly scrutinize the exoplanets and their atmospheres. Aims. We seek to quantify the exoplanet detection performance of a space-based mid-infrared (MIR) nulling interferometer that measures the thermal emission of exoplanets. We study the impact of various parameters and compare the performance with that of large single-aperture mission concepts that detect exoplanets in reflected light. Methods. We have developed an instrument simulator that considers all major astrophysical noise sources and coupled it with Monte Carlo simulations of a synthetic exoplanet population around main-sequence stars within 20 pc of the Sun. This allows us to quantify the number (and types) of exoplanets that our mission concept could detect. Considering single visits only, we discuss two different scenarios for distributing 2.5 yr of an initial search phase among the stellar targets. Different apertures sizes and wavelength ranges are investigated. Results. An interferometer consisting of four 2 m apertures working in the 4–18.5 μ.m wavelength range with a total instrument throughput of 5% could detect up to ≈550 exoplanets with radii between 0.5 and 6 R ⊕ with an integrated S / N ≥ 7. At least ≈160 of the detected exoplanets have radii ≤1.5 R ⊕ . Depending on the observing scenario, ≈25–45 rocky exoplanets (objects with radii between 0.5 and 1.5 R ⊕ ) orbiting within the empirical habitable zone (eHZ) of their host stars are among the detections. With four 3.5 m apertures, the total number of detections can increase to up to ≈770, including ≈60–80 rocky eHZ planets. With four times 1 m apertures, the maximum detection yield is ≈315 exoplanets, including ≤20 rocky eHZ planets. The vast majority of small, temperate exoplanets are detected around M dwarfs. The impact of changing the wavelength range to 3–20 μm or 6–17 μm on the detection yield is negligible. Conclusions. A large space-based MIR nulling interferometer will be able to directly detect hundreds of small, nearby exoplanets, tens of which would be habitable world candidates. This shows that such a mission can compete with large single-aperture reflected light missions. Further increasing the number of habitable world candidates, in particular around solar-type stars, appears possible via the implementation of a multi-visit strategy during the search phase. The high median S/N of most of the detected planets will allow for first estimates of their radii and effective temperatures and will help prioritize the targets for a second mission phase to obtain high-S/N thermal emission spectra, leveraging the superior diagnostic power of the MIR regime compared to shorter wavelengths.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201732476
Abstract: Context. A low-mass brown dwarf has recently been imaged around HR 2562 (HD 50571), a star hosting a debris disk resolved in the far infrared. Interestingly, the companion location is compatible with an orbit coplanar with the disk and interior to the debris belt. This feature makes the system a valuable laboratory to analyze the formation of substellar companions in a circumstellar disk and potential disk-companion dynamical interactions. Aims. We aim to further characterize the orbital motion of HR 2562 B and its interactions with the host star debris disk. Methods. We performed a monitoring of the system over ~10 months in 2016 and 2017 with the VLT/SPHERE exoplanet imager. Results. We confirm that the companion is comoving with the star and detect for the first time an orbital motion at high significance, with a current orbital motion projected in the plane of the sky of 25 mas (~0.85 au) per year. No orbital curvature is seen in the measurements. An orbital fit of the SPHERE and literature astrometry of the companion without priors on the orbital plane clearly indicates that its orbit is (quasi-)coplanar with the disk. To further constrain the other orbital parameters, we used empirical laws for a companion chaotic zone validated by N-body simulations to test the orbital solutions that are compatible with the estimated disk cavity size. Non-zero eccentricities ( .15) are allowed for orbital periods shorter than 100 yr, while only moderate eccentricities up to ~0.3 for orbital periods longer than 200 yr are compatible with the disk observations. A comparison of synthetic Herschel images to the real data does not allow us to constrain the upper eccentricity of the companion.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201732454
Abstract: Context. The study of high-contrast imaged brown dwarfs and exoplanets depends strongly on evolutionary models. To estimate the mass of a directly imaged substellar object, its extracted photometry or spectrum is used and adjusted with model spectra together with the estimated age of the system. These models still need to be properly tested and constrained. HD 4747B is a brown dwarf close to the H burning mass limit, orbiting a nearby ( d = 19.25 ± 0.58 pc), solar-type star (G9V) it has been observed with the radial velocity method for over almost two decades. Its companion was also recently detected by direct imaging, allowing a complete study of this particular object. Aims. We aim to fully characterize HD 4747B by combining a well-constrained dynamical mass and a study of its observed spectral features in order to test evolutionary models for substellar objects and to characterize its atmosphere. Methods. We combined the radial velocity measurements of High Resolution Echelle Spectrometer (HIRES) and CORALIE taken over two decades and high-contrast imaging of several epochs from NACO, NIRC2, and SPHERE to obtain a dynamical mass. From the SPHERE data we obtained a low-resolution spectrum of the companion from Y to H band, and two narrow band-width photometric measurements in the K band. A study of the primary star also allowed us to constrain the age of the system and its distance. Results. Thanks to the new SPHERE epoch and NACO archival data combined with previous imaging data and high-precision radial velocity measurements, we were able to derive a well-constrained orbit. The high eccentricity ( e = 0.7362 ± 0.0025) of HD 4747B is confirmed, and the inclination and the semi-major axis are derived ( i = 47.3 ± 1.6°, a = 10.01 ± 0.21 au). We derive a dynamical mass of m B = 70.0 ± 1.6 M Jup , which is higher than a previous study but in better agreement with the models. By comparing the object with known brown dwarfs spectra, we derive a spectral type of L9 and an effective temperature of 1350 ± 50 K. With a retrieval analysis we constrain the oxygen and carbon abundances and compare them with the values from the HR 8799 planets.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201731145
Abstract: Context. The substellar companion HD 206893b has recently been discovered by direct imaging of its disc-bearing host star with the Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet REsearch (SPHERE) instrument. Aims. We investigate the atypical properties of the companion, which has the reddest near-infrared colours among all known substellar objects, either orbiting a star or isolated, and we provide a comprehensive characterisation of the host star-disc-companion system. Methods. We conducted a follow-up of the companion with adaptive optics imaging and spectro-imaging with SPHERE, and a multi-instrument follow-up of its host star. We obtain a R = 30 spectrum from 0.95 to 1.64 μ m of the companion and additional photometry at 2.11 and 2.25 μ m. We carried out extensive atmosphere model fitting for the companions and the host star in order to derive their age, mass, and metallicity. Results. We found no additional companion in the system in spite of exquisite observing conditions resulting in sensitivity to 6 M Jup (2 M Jup ) at 0.5′′ for an age of 300 Myr (50 Myr). We detect orbital motion over more than one year and characterise the possible Keplerian orbits. We constrain the age of the system to a minimum of 50 Myr and a maximum of 700 Myr, and determine that the host-star metallicity is nearly solar. The comparison of the companion spectrum and photometry to model atmospheres indicates that the companion is an extremely dusty late L dwarf, with an intermediate gravity (log g ~ 4.5–5.0) which is compatible with the independent age estimate of the system. Conclusions. Though our best fit corresponds to a brown dwarf of 15–30 M Jup aged 100–300 Myr, our analysis is also compatible with a range of masses and ages going from a 50 Myr 12 M Jup planetary-mass object to a 50 M Jup Hyades-age brown dwarf. Even though this companion is extremely red, we note that it is more probable that it has an intermediate gravity rather than the very low gravity that is often associated with very red L dwarfs. We also find that the detected companion cannot shape the observed outer debris disc, hinting that one or several additional planetary mass objects in the system might be necessary to explain the position of the disc inner edge.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 02-2021
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202039601
Abstract: Context. Sirius-like systems are relatively wide binaries with a separation from a few to hundreds of au they are composed of a white dwarf (WD) and a companion of a spectral type earlier than M0. Here we consider main sequence (MS) companions, where the WD progenitor evolves in isolation, but its wind during the former asymptotic giant branch (AGB) phase pollutes the companion surface and transfers some angular momentum. They are rich laboratories to constrain stellar models and binary evolution. Aims. Within the SpHere INfrared survey for Exoplanet survey that uses the Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet REsearch (SPHERE) instrument at the Very Large Telescope, our goal is to acquire high contrast multi-epoch observations of three Sirius-like systems, HD 2133, HD 114174, and CD-56 7708 and to combine this data with archive high resolution spectra of the primaries, TESS archive, and literature data. Methods. These WDs are easy targets for SPHERE and were used as spectrophotometric standards. We performed very accurate abundance analyses for the MS stars using methods considered for solar analogs. Whenever possible, WD parameters and orbits were obtained using Monte Carlo Markov chain methods. Results. We found brighter J and K magnitudes for HD 114174B than obtained previously and extended the photometry down to 0.95 μ m. Our new data indicate a higher temperature and then shorter cooling age (5.57 ± 0.02 Gyr) and larger mass (0.75 ± 0.03 M ⊙ ) for this WD than previously assumed. Together with the oldest age for the MS star connected to the use of the Gaia DR2 distance, this solved the discrepancy previously found with the age of the MS star. The two other WDs are less massive, indicating progenitors of ∼1.3 M ⊙ and 1.5 − 1.8 M ⊙ for HD 2133B and CD-56 7708B, respectively. In spite of the rather long periods, we were able to derive useful constraints on the orbit for HD 114174 and CD-56 7708. They are both seen close to edge-on, which is in agreement with the inclination of the MS stars that are obtained coupling the rotational periods, stellar radii, and the projected rotational velocity from spectroscopy. The composition of the MS stars agrees fairly well with expectations from pollution by the AGB progenitors of the WDs: HD 2133A has a small enrichment of n-capture elements, which is as expected for pollution by an AGB star with an initial mass 1.5 M ⊙ CD-56 7708A is a previously unrecognized mild Ba-star, which is also expected due to pollution by an AGB star with an initial mass in the range of 1.5 − 3.0 M ⊙ and HD 114174 has a very moderate excess of n-capture elements, which is in agreement with the expectation for a massive AGB star to have an initial mass 3.0 M ⊙ . Conclusions. On the other hand, none of these stars show the excesses of C that are expected to go along with those of n-capture elements. This might be related to the fact that these stars are at the edges of the mass range where we expect nucleosynthesis related to thermal pulses. More work, both theoretical and observational, is required to better understand this issue.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2020
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202037941
Abstract: We report the confirmation and mass determination of three hot Jupiters discovered by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission: HIP 65Ab (TOI-129, TIC-201248411) is an ultra-short-period Jupiter orbiting a bright ( V = 11.1 mag) K4-dwarf every 0.98 days. It is a massive 3.213 ± 0.078 M J planet in a grazing transit configuration with an impact parameter of b = 1.17 −0.08 +0.10 . As a result the radius is poorly constrained, 2.03 −0.49 +0.61 R J . The planet’s distance to its host star is less than twice the separation at which it would be destroyed by Roche lobe overflow. It is expected to spiral into HIP 65A on a timescale ranging from 80 Myr to a few gigayears, assuming a reduced tidal dissipation quality factor of Q s ′ = 10 7 − 10 9 . We performed a full phase-curve analysis of the TESS data and detected both illumination- and ellipsoidal variations as well as Doppler boosting. HIP 65A is part of a binary stellar system, with HIP 65B separated by 269 AU (3.95 arcsec on sky). TOI-157b (TIC 140691463) is a typical hot Jupiter with a mass of 1.18 ± 0.13 M J and a radius of 1.29 ± 0.02 R J . It has a period of 2.08 days, which corresponds to a separation of just 0.03 AU. This makes TOI-157 an interesting system, as the host star is an evolved G9 sub-giant star ( V = 12.7). TOI-169b (TIC 183120439) is a bloated Jupiter orbiting a V = 12.4 G-type star. It has a mass of 0.79 ±0.06 M J and a radius of 1.09 −0.05 +0.08 R J . Despite having the longest orbital period ( P = 2.26 days) of the three planets, TOI-169b receives the most irradiation and is situated on the edge of the Neptune desert. All three host stars are metal rich with [Fe / H] ranging from 0.18 to0.24.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2020
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202037984
Abstract: Context. Detecting and characterizing substellar companions for which the luminosity, mass, and age can be determined independently is of utter importance to test and calibrate the evolutionary models due to uncertainties in their formation mechanisms. HD 19467 is a bright and nearby star hosting a cool brown dwarf companion detected with radial velocities and imaging, making it a valuable object for such studies. Aims. We aim to further characterize the orbital, spectral, and physical properties of the HD 19467 system. Methods. We present new high-contrast imaging data with the SPHERE and NaCo instruments. We also analyze archival data from the instruments HARPS, NaCo, HIRES, UVES, and ASAS. Furthermore, we use proper motion data of the star from H IPPARCOS and Gaia . Results. We refined the properties of the host star and derived an age of 8.0 +2.0 −1.0 Gyr based on isochrones, gyrochronology, and chemical and kinematic arguments. This age estimate is slightly younger than previous age estimates of ~9–11 Gyr based on isochrones. No orbital curvature is seen in the current imaging, radial velocity, and astrometric data. From a joint fit of the data, we refined the orbital parameters for HD 19467B, including: a period of 398 +95 −93 yr, an inclination of 129.8 +8.1 −5.1 deg, an eccentricity of 0.56 ± 0.09, a longitude of the ascending node of 134.8 ± 4.5 deg, and an argument of the periastron of 64.2 +5.5 −6.3 deg. We assess a dynamical mass of 74 +12 −9 M J . The fit with atmospheric models of the spectrophotometric data of the companion indicates an atmosphere without clouds or with very thin clouds, an effective temperature of 1042 +77 −71 K, and a high surface gravity of 5.34 +0.8 −0.9 dex. The comparison to model predictions of the bolometric luminosity and dynamical mass of HD 19467B, assuming our system age estimate, indicates a better agreement with the Burrows et al. (1997, ApJ, 491, 856) models whereas, the other evolutionary models used tend to underestimate its cooling rate.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 06-2020
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202037594
Abstract: Context. Proxima Centauri is the closest star to the Sun and it is known to host an Earth-like planet in its habitable zone very recently a second candidate planet was proposed based on radial velocities. At quadrature, the expected projected separation of this new candidate is larger than 1 arcsec, making it a potentially interesting target for direct imaging. Aims. While identification of the optical counterpart of this planet is expected to be very difficult, successful identification would allow for a detailed characterization of the closest planetary system. Methods. We searched for a counterpart in SPHERE images acquired over four years through the SHINE survey. In order to account for the expected large orbital motion of the planet, we used a method that assumes the circular orbit obtained from radial velocities and exploits the sequence of observations acquired close to quadrature in the orbit. We checked this with a more general approach that considers Keplerian motion, called K-stacker. Results. We did not obtain a clear detection. The best candidate has signal-to-noise ratio ( S ∕ N ) = 6.1 in the combined image. A statistical test suggests that the probability that this detection is due to random fluctuation of noise is %, but this result depends on the assumption that the distribution of noise is uniform over the image, a fact that is likely not true. The position of this candidate and the orientation of its orbital plane fit well with observations in the ALMA 12 m array image. However, the astrometric signal expected from the orbit of the candidate we detected is 3 σ away from the astrometric motion of Proxima as measured from early Gaia data. This, together with the unexpectedly high flux associated with our direct imaging detection, means we cannot confirm that our candidate is indeed Proxima c. Conclusions. On the other hand, if confirmed, this would be the first observation in imaging of a planet discovered from radial velocities and the second planet (after Fomalhaut b) of reflecting circumplanetary material. Further confirmation observations should be done as soon as possible.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201834302
Abstract: Context. With an orbital distance comparable to that of Saturn in the solar system, β Pictoris b is the closest (semi-major axis ≃9 au) exoplanet that has been imaged to orbit a star. Thus it offers unique opportunities for detailed studies of its orbital, physical, and atmospheric properties, and of disk-planet interactions. With the exception of the discovery observations in 2003 with NaCo at the Very Large Telescope (VLT), all following astrometric measurements relative to β Pictoris have been obtained in the southwestern part of the orbit, which severely limits the determination of the planet’s orbital parameters. Aims . We aimed at further constraining β Pictoris b orbital properties using more data, and, in particular, data taken in the northeastern part of the orbit. Methods. We used SPHERE at the VLT to precisely monitor the orbital motion of beta β Pictoris b since first light of the instrument in 2014. Results . We were able to monitor the planet until November 2016, when its angular separation became too small (125 mas, i.e., 1.6 au) and prevented further detection. We redetected β Pictoris b on the northeast side of the disk at a separation of 139 mas and a PA of 30° in September 2018. The planetary orbit is now well constrained. With a semi-major axis (sma) of a = 9.0 ± 0.5 au (1 σ ), it definitely excludes previously reported possible long orbital periods, and excludes β Pictoris b as the origin of photometric variations that took place in 1981. We also refine the eccentricity and inclination of the planet. From an instrumental point of view, these data demonstrate that it is possible to detect, if they exist, young massive Jupiters that orbit at less than 2 au from a star that is 20 pc away.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201833990
Abstract: Aims. HD 142527 is one of the most frequently studied Herbig Ae/Be stars with a transitional disk that hosts a large cavity that is up to about 100 au in radius. For this reason, it has been included in the guaranteed time observation (GTO) SpHere INfrared survey for Exoplanets (SHINE) as part of the Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet REsearch (SPHERE) at the Very Large Telescope (VLT) in order to search for low-mass companions that might explain the presence of the gap. SHINE is a large survey within about 600 young nearby stars are observed with SPHERE with the aim to constrain the occurrence and orbital properties of the giant planet population at large ( 5 au) orbital separation around young stars. Methods. We used the IRDIFS observing mode of SPHERE (IRDIS short for infrared dual imaging and spectrograph plus IFS or integral field spectrograph) without any coronagraph in order to search for and characterize companions as close as 30 mas of the star. Furthermore, we present the first observations that ever used the sparse aperture mask (SAM) for SPHERE both in IRDIFS and IRDIFS_EXT modes. All the data were reduced using the dedicated SPHERE pipeline and dedicated algorithms that make use of the principal component analysis (PCA) and reference differential imaging (RDI) techniques. Results. We detect the accreting low–mass companion HD 142527B at a separation of 73 mas (11.4 au) from the star. No other companions with mass greater than 10 M J are visible in the field of view of IFS (∼100 au centered on the star) or in the IRDIS field of view (∼400 au centered on the star). Measurements from IFS, SAM IFS, and IRDIS suggest an M6 spectral type for HD 142527B, with an uncertainty of one spectral subtype, compatible with an object of M = 0.11 ± 0.06 M ⊙ and R = 0.15 ± 0.07 R ⊙ . The determination of the mass remains a challenge using contemporary evolutionary models, as they do not account for the energy input due to accretion from infalling material. We consider that the spectral type of the secondary may also be earlier than the type we derived from IFS spectra. From dynamical considerations, we further constrain the mass to 0.26 +0.16 −0.14 M ⊙ , which is consistent with both our spectroscopic analysis and the values reported in the literature. Following previous methods, the lower and upper dynamical mass values correspond to a spectral type between M2.5 and M5.5 for the companion. By fitting the astrometric points, we find the following orbital parameters: a period of P = 35 − 137 yr an inclination of i = 121 − 130°, a value of Ω = 124 − 135° for the longitude of node, and an 68% confidence interval of ∼18 − 57 au for the separation at periapsis. Eccentricity and time at periapsis passage exhibit two groups of values: ∼0.2–0.45 and ∼0.45–0.7 for e , and ∼2015–2020 and ∼2020–2022 for T 0 . While these orbital parameters might at first suggest that HD 142527B is not the companion responsible for the outer disk truncation, a previous hydrodynamical analysis of this system showed that they are compatible with a companion that is able to produce the large cavity and other observed features.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 28-02-2013
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 23-03-2023
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202244380
Abstract: Aims. We present new optical and near-infrared images of the debris disk around the F-type star HD 114082 in the Scorpius-Centaurus OB association. We obtained direct imaging observations and analyzed the TESS photometric time series data of this target with the goal of searching for planetary companions to HD 114082 and characterizing the morphology of the debris disk and the scattering properties of dust particles. Methods. HD 114082 was observed with the VLT/SPHERE instrument in different modes – the IRDIS camera in the K band (2.0–2.3 μm) together with the IFS in the Y , J , and H bands (0.95–1.66 μm) using the angular differential imaging technique as well as IRDIS in the H band (1.5–1.8 μm) and ZIMPOL in the I_PRIME band (0.71–0.87 μm) using the polarimetric differential imaging technique. To constrain the basic geometrical parameters of the disk and the scattering properties of dust grains, scattered light images were fitted with a 3D model for single scattering in an optically thin dust disk using a Markov chain Monte Carlo approach. We performed aperture photometry to derive the scattering and polarized phase functions, the polarization fraction, and the spectral scattering albedo for the dust particles in the disk. This method was also used to obtain the reflectance spectrum of the disk and, in turn, to retrieve the disk color and study the dust reflectivity in comparison to the debris disk HD 117214. We also performed the modeling of the HD 114082 light curve measured by TESS using models for planet transit and stellar activity to put constraints on the radius of the detected planet and its orbit. Last, we searched for additional planets in the system by combining archival radial velocity data, astrometry, and direct imaging. Results. The debris disk HD 114082 appears as an axisymmetric debris belt with a radius of ~0.37″ (35 au), an inclination of ~83°, and a wide inner cavity. Dust particles in HD 114082 have a maximum polarization fraction of ~17% and a higher reflectivity when compared to the debris disk HD 117214. This high reflectivity results in a spectral scattering albedo of ~0.65 for the HD 114082 disk at near-infrared wavelengths. The disk reflectance spectrum exhibits a red color at the position of the planetesimal belt and shows no obvious features, whereas that of HD 117214 might indicate the presence of CO 2 ice. The analysis of TESS photometric data reveals a transiting planetary companion to HD 114082 with a radius of ~1 R Jup on an orbit with a semimajor axis of 0.7 ± 0.4 au. No additional planet was detected in the system when we combined the SPHERE images with constraints from astrometry and radial velocity. We reach deep sensitivity limits down to ~5 M Jup at 50 au and ~10 M Jup at 30 au from the central star.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 16-02-2016
Publisher: American Astronomical Society
Date: 26-09-2017
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201935546
Abstract: Context. Jets are rarely associated with pre-main sequence intermediate-mass stars. This contrasts with the frequent detection of jets in lower mass or younger stars. Optical and near-IR observations of jet-driving sources are often hindered by the presence of a natal envelope. Aims. Jets around partly embedded sources are a useful diagnostic to constrain the geometry of the concealed protoplanetary disk. We intend to clarify how the jet-driving mechanisms are affected by both spatial anisotropies and episodic variations at the (sub-)au scale from the star. Methods. We obtained a rich set of high-contrast VLT/SPHERE observations from 0.6 to 2.2 μ m of the young intermediate-mass star RY Tau. Given the proximity to the Sun of this source, our images have the highest spatial resolution ever obtained for an atomic jet (down to ~4 au). Results. Optical observations in polarized light show no sign of the protoplanetary disk detected by ALMA. Instead, we observed a diffuse signal resembling a remnant envelope with an outflow cavity. The jet is detected in the H α , [S II ] at 1.03 μ m, He I at 1.08 μ m, and [Fe II ] lines in the 1.25 μ m and 1.64 μ m. The jet appears to be wiggling and its radial width increasing with the distance is complementary to the shape of the outflow cavity suggesting a strong interaction with jet and envelope. Through the estimated tangential velocity (~100 km s −1 ), we revealed a possible connection between the launching time of the jet substructures and the stellar activity of RY Tau. Conclusions. RY Tau is at an intermediate stage toward the dispersal of the natal envelope. This source shows episodic increases of mass accretion and ejection similarly to other known intermediate-mass stars. The amount of observed jet wiggle is consistent with the presence of a precessing disk warp or misaligned inner disk that would be induced by an unseen planetary or sub-stellar companion at sub- or few-au scales respectively. The high disk mass of RY Tau and of two other jet-driving intermediate-mass stars, HD 163296 and MWC480, suggests that massive, full disks are more efficient at launching prominent jets.
Publisher: American Astronomical Society
Date: 22-01-2021
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201630136
Abstract: Using high-contrast imaging with the SPHERE instrument at the Very Large Telescope (VLT), we report the first images of a cold brown dwarf companion to the exoplanet host star HD 4113A. The brown dwarf HD 4113C is part of a complex dynamical system consisting of a giant planet, a stellar host, and a known wide M-dwarf companion. Its separation of 535 ± 3 mas and H -band contrast of 13.35 ± 0.10 mag correspond to a projected separation of 22 AU and an isochronal mass estimate of 36 ± 5 M J based on COND models. The companion shows strong methane absorption, and through fitting an atmosphere model, we estimate a surface gravity of log g = 5 and an effective temperature of ~500–600 K. A comparison of its spectrum with observed T dwarfs indicates a late-T spectral type, with a T9 object providing the best match. By combining the observed astrometry from the imaging data with 27 years of radial velocities, we use orbital fitting to constrain its orbital and physical parameters, as well as update those of the planet HD 4113A b, discovered by previous radial velocity measurements. The data suggest a dynamical mass of 66 −4 +5 M J and moderate eccentricity of 0.44 −0.07 +0.08 for the brown dwarf. This mass estimate appears to contradict the isochronal estimate and that of objects with similar temperatures, which may be caused by the newly detected object being an unresolved binary brown dwarf system or the presence of an additional object in the system. Through dynamical simulations, we show that the planet may undergo strong Lidov-Kozai cycles, raising the possibility that it formed on a quasi-circular orbit and gained its currently observed high eccentricity ( e ~ 0.9) through interactions with the brown dwarf. Follow-up observations combining radial velocities, direct imaging, and Gaia astrometry will be crucial to precisely constrain the dynamical mass of the brown dwarf and allow for an in-depth comparison with evolutionary and atmosphere models.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-12-2020
Abstract: We report the period, eccentricity, and mass determination for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) single-transit event candidate TOI-222, which displayed a single 3000 ppm transit in the TESS 2-min cadence data from Sector 2. We determine the orbital period via radial velocity measurements (P = 33.9 d), which allowed for ground-based photometric detection of two subsequent transits. Our data show that the companion to TOI-222 is a low-mass star, with a radius of $0.18_{-0.10}^{+0.39}$ R⊙ and a mass of 0.23 ± 0.01 M⊙. This discovery showcases the ability to efficiently discover long-period systems from TESS single-transit events using a combination of radial velocity monitoring coupled with high-precision ground-based photometry.
Publisher: SPIE
Date: 26-07-2016
DOI: 10.1117/12.2234294
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202142438
Abstract: We present orbital fits and dynamical masses for HIP 113201AB and HIP 36985AB, two M1 + mid-M dwarf binary systems monitored as part of the SPHERE-SHINE survey. To robustly determine the age of both systems via gyrochronology, we undertook a photometric monitoring c aign for HIP 113201 and GJ 282AB, the two wide K star companions to HIP 36985, using the 40 cm Remote Observatory Atacama Desert telescope. Based on this monitoring and gyrochronological relationships, we adopt ages of 1.2 ± 0.1 Gyr for HIP 113201AB and 750 ± 100 Myr for HIP 36985AB. These systems are sufficiently old that we expect that all components of these binaries have reached the main sequence. To derive dynamical masses for all components of the HIP 113201AB and HIP 36985AB systems, we used parallel-tempering Markov chain Monte Carlo s ling to fit a combination of radial velocity, direct imaging, and Gaia and HIPPARCOS astrometry. Fitting the direct imaging and radial velocity data for HIP 113201 yields a primary mass of 0.54 ± 0.03 M ⊙ , fully consistent with its M1 spectral type, and a secondary mass of 0.145 ± M ⊙ . The secondary masses derived with and without including HIPPARCOS - Gaia data are all considerably more massive than the 0.1 M ⊙ mass estimated from the photometry of the companion. Thus, the dynamical impacts of this companion suggest that it is more massive than expected from its photometry. An undetected brown dwarf companion to HIP 113201B could be a natural explanation for this apparent discrepancy. At an age Gyr, a 30 M Jup companion to HIP 113201B would make a negligible ( %) contribution to the system luminosity but could have strong dynamical impacts. Fitting the direct imaging, radial velocity, and HIPPARCOS - Gaia proper motion anomaly for HIP 36985AB, we find a primary mass of 0.54 ± 0.01 M ⊙ and a secondary mass of 0.185 ± 0.001 M ⊙ , which agree well with photometric estimates of component masses, the masses estimated from M K – mass relationships for M dwarf stars, and previous dynamical masses in the literature.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2021
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202038806
Abstract: Context. Large surveys with new-generation high-contrast imaging instruments are needed to derive the frequency and properties of exoplanet populations with separations from ~5 to 300 au. A careful assessment of the stellar properties is crucial for a proper understanding of when, where, and how frequently planets form, and how they evolve. The sensitivity of detection limits to stellar age makes this a key parameter for direct imaging surveys. Aims. We describe the SpHere INfrared survey for Exoplanets (SHINE), the largest direct imaging planet-search c aign initiated at the VLT in 2015 in the context of the SPHERE Guaranteed Time Observations of the SPHERE consortium. In this first paper we present the selection and the properties of the complete s le of stars surveyed with SHINE, focusing on the targets observed during the first phase of the survey (from February 2015 to February 2017). This early s le composed of 150 stars is used to perform a preliminary statistical analysis of the SHINE data, deferred to two companion papers presenting the survey performance, main discoveries, and the preliminary statistical constraints set by SHINE. Methods. Based on a large database collecting the stellar properties of all young nearby stars in the solar vicinity (including kinematics, membership to moving groups, isochrones, lithium abundance, rotation, and activity), we selected the original s le of 800 stars that were ranked in order of priority according to their sensitivity for planet detection in direct imaging with SPHERE. The properties of the stars that are part of the early statistical s le wererevisited, including for instance measurements from the Gaia Data Release 2. Rotation periods were derived for the vast majority of the late-type objects exploiting TESS light curves and dedicated photometric observations. Results. The properties of in idual targets and of the s le as a whole are presented.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2021
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202038107
Abstract: The SpHere INfrared Exoplanet (SHINE) project is a 500-star survey performed with SPHERE on the Very Large Telescope for the purpose of directly detecting new substellar companions and understanding their formation and early evolution. Here we present an initial statistical analysis for a subs le of 150 stars spanning spectral types from B to M that are representative of the full SHINE s le. Our goal is to constrain the frequency of substellar companions with masses between 1 and 75 M Jup and semimajor axes between 5 and 300 au. For this purpose, we adopt detection limits as a function of angular separation from the survey data for all stars converted into mass and projected orbital separation using the BEX-COND-hot evolutionary tracks and known distance to each system. Based on the results obtained for each star and on the 13 detections in the s le, we use a Markov chain Monte Carlo tool to compare our observations to two different types of models. The first is a parametric model based on observational constraints, and the second type are numerical models that combine advanced core accretion and gravitational instability planet population synthesis. Using the parametric model, we show that the frequencies of systems with at least one substellar companion are 23.0 −9.7 +13.5 , 5.8 −2.8 +4.7 , and 12.6 −7.1 +12.9 % for BA, FGK, and M stars, respectively. We also demonstrate that a planet-like formation pathway probably dominates the mass range from 1–75 M Jup for companions around BA stars, while for M dwarfs, brown dwarf binaries dominate detections. In contrast, a combination of binary star-like and planet-like formation is required to best fit the observations for FGK stars. Using our population model and restricting our s le to FGK stars, we derive a frequency of 5.7 −2.8 +3.8 %, consistent with predictions from the parametric model. More generally, the frequency values that we derive are in excellent agreement with values obtained in previous studies.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 2015
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201832942
Abstract: Context. The G-type star GJ504A is known to host a 3–35 M Jup companion whose temperature, mass, and projected separation all contribute to making it a test case for planet formation theories and atmospheric models of giant planets and light brown dwarfs. Aims. We aim at revisiting the system age, architecture, and companion physical and chemical properties using new complementary interferometric, radial-velocity, and high-contrast imaging data. Methods. We used the CHARA interferometer to measure GJ504A’s angular diameter and obtained an estimation of its radius in combinationwith the H IPPARCOS parallax. The radius was compared to evolutionary tracks to infer a new independent age range for the system. We collected dual imaging data with IRDIS on VLT/SPHERE to s le the near-infrared (1.02–2.25 μ m) spectral energy distribution (SED) of the companion. The SED was compared to five independent grids of atmospheric models ( petitCODE , Exo-REM , BT-SETTL , Morley et al., and ATMO ) to infer the atmospheric parameters of GJ 504b and evaluate model-to-model systematic errors. In addition, we used a specific model grid exploring the effect of different C/O ratios. Contrast limits from 2011 to 2017 were combined with radial velocity data of the host star through the MESS2 tool to define upper limits on the mass of additional companions in the system from 0.01 to 100 au. We used an MCMC fitting tool to constrain the companion’sorbital parameters based on the measured astrometry, and dedicated formation models to investigate its origin. Results. We report a radius of 1.35 ± 0.04 R ⊙ for GJ504A. The radius yields isochronal ages of 21 ± 2 Myr or 4.0 ± 1.8 Gyr for the system and line-of-sight stellar rotation axis inclination of 162.4 −4.3 +3.8 degrees or 186.6 −3.8 +4.3 degrees. We re-detect the companion in the Y2, Y3, J3, H2, and K1 dual-band images. The complete 1–4 μ m SED shape of GJ504b is best reproduced by T8-T9.5 objects with intermediate ages (≤ 1.5Gyr), and/or unusual dusty atmospheres and/or super-solar metallicities. All atmospheric models yield T eff = 550 ± 50 K for GJ504b and point toward a low surface gravity (3.5–4.0 dex). The accuracy on the metallicity value is limited by model-to-model systematics it is not degenerate with the C/O ratio. We derive log L ∕ L ⊙ = −6.15 ± 0.15 dex for the companion from the empirical analysis and spectral synthesis. The luminosity and T eff yield masses of M = 1.3 −0.3 +0.6 M Jup and M = 23 −9 +10 M Jup for the young and old age ranges, respectively. The semi-major axis (sma) is above 27.8 au and the eccentricity is lower than 0.55. The posterior on GJ 504b’s orbital inclination suggests a misalignment with the rotation axis of GJ 504A. We exclude additional objects (90% prob.) more massive than 2.5 and 30 M Jup with semi-major axes in the range 0.01–80 au for the young and old isochronal ages, respectively. Conclusions. The mass and semi-major axis of GJ 504b are marginally compatible with a formation by disk-instability if the system is 4 Gyr old. The companion is in the envelope of the population of planets synthesized with our core-accretion model. Additional deep imaging and spectroscopic data with SPHERE and JWST should help to confirm the possible spin-orbit misalignment and refine the estimates on the companion temperature, luminosity, and atmospheric composition.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 18-06-2019
Abstract: HD 163296 is a Herbig Ae/Be star known to host a protoplanetary disc with a ringed structure. To explain the disc features, previous works proposed the presence of planets embedded into the disc. We have observed HD 163296 with the near-infrared (NIR) branch of SPHERE composed by IRDIS (InfraRed Dual-band Imager and Spectrograph) and IFS (integral field spectrograph) with the aim to put tight constraints on the presence of substellar companions around this star. Despite the low rotation of the field of view during our observation we were able to put upper mass limits of few MJup around this object. These limits do not allow to give any definitive conclusion about the planets proposed through the disc characteristics. On the other hand, our results seem to exclude the presence of the only candidate proposed until now using direct imaging in the NIR even if some caution has to be taken considered the different wavelength bands of the two observations.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 09-2020
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201937290
Abstract: Context. In recent decades, thousands of substellar companions have been discovered with both indirect and direct methods of detection. While the majority of the s le is populated by objects discovered using radial velocity and transit techniques, an increasing number have been directly imaged. These planets and brown dwarfs are extraordinary sources of information that help in rounding out our understanding of planetary systems. Aims. In this paper, we focus our attention on substellar companions detected with the latter technique, with the primary goal of investigating their close surroundings and looking for additional companions and satellites, as well as disks and rings. Any such discovery would shed light on many unresolved questions, particularly with regard to their possible formation mechanisms. Methods. To reveal bound features of directly imaged companions, whether for point-like or extended sources, we need to suppress the contribution from the source itself. Therefore, we developed a method based on the negative fake companion technique that first estimates the position in the field of view (FoV) and the flux of the imaged companion with high precision, then subtracts a rescaled model point spread function (PSF) from the imaged companion, using either an image of the central star or another PSF in the FoV. Next it performs techniques, such as angular differential imaging, to further remove quasi-static patterns of the star (i.e., speckle contaminants) that affect the residuals of close-in companions. Results. After testing our tools on simulated companions and disks and on systems that were chosen ad hoc, we applied the method to the s le of substellar objects observed with SPHERE during the SHINE GTO survey. Among the 27 planets and brown dwarfs we analyzed, most objects did not show remarkable features, which was as expected, with the possible exception of a point source close to DH Tau B. This candidate companion was detected in four different SPHERE observations, with an estimated mass of ~1 M Jup , and a mass ratio with respect to the brown dwarf of 1∕10. This binary system, if confirmed, would be the first of its kind, opening up interesting questions for the formation mechanism, evolution, and frequency of such pairs. In order to address the latter, the residuals and contrasts reached for 25 companions in the s le of substellar objects observed with SPHERE were derived. If the DH Tau Bb companion is real, the binary fraction obtained is ~7%, which is in good agreement with the results obtained for field brown dwarfs. Conclusions. While there may currently be many limitations affecting the exploration of bound features to directly imaged exoplanets and brown dwarfs, next-generation instruments from the ground and space (i.e., JWST, ELT, and LUVOIR) will be able to image fainter objects and, thus, drive the application of this technique in upcoming searches for exo-moons and circumplanetary disks.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201731152
Abstract: Aims. The SHINE program is a high-contrast near-infrared survey of 600 young, nearby stars aimed at searching for and characterizing new planetary systems using VLT/SPHERE’s unprecedented high-contrast and high-angular-resolution imaging capabilities. It is also intended to place statistical constraints on the rate, mass and orbital distributions of the giant planet population at large orbits as a function of the stellar host mass and age to test planet-formation theories. Methods. We used the IRDIS dual-band imager and the IFS integral field spectrograph of SPHERE to acquire high-contrast coronagraphic differential near-infrared images and spectra of the young A2 star HIP 65426. It is a member of the ~17 Myr old Lower Centaurus-Crux association. Results. At a separation of 830 mas (92 au projected) from the star, we detect a faint red companion. Multi-epoch observations confirm that it shares common proper motion with HIP 65426. Spectro-photometric measurements extracted with IFS and IRDIS between 0.95 and 2.2 μ m indicate a warm, dusty atmosphere characteristic of young low-surface-gravity L5-L7 dwarfs. Hot-start evolutionary models predict a luminosity consistent with a 6–12 M Jup , T eff = 1300–1600 K and R = 1.5 ± 0.1 R Jup giant planet. Finally, the comparison with Exo-REM and PHOENIX BT-Settl synthetic atmosphere models gives consistent effective temperatures but with slightly higher surface gravity solutions of log ( g ) = 4.0–5.0 with smaller radii (1.0–1.3 R Jup ). Conclusions. Given its physical and spectral properties, HIP 65426 b occupies a rather unique placement in terms of age, mass, and spectral-type among the currently known imaged planets. It represents a particularly interesting case to study the presence of clouds as a function of particle size, composition, and location in the atmosphere, to search for signatures of non-equilibrium chemistry, and finally to test the theory of planet formation and evolution.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201731649
Abstract: Aims. HR 2562 is an F5V star located at ~33 pc from the Sun hosting a substellar companion that was discovered using the Gemini planet imager (GPI) instrument. The main objective of the present paper is to provide an extensive characterization of the substellar companion, by deriving its fundamental properties. Methods. We observed HR 2562 with the near-infrared branch composed by the integral field spectrograph (IFS) and the infrared dual band spectrograph (IRDIS) of the spectro-polarimetric high-contrast exoplanet research (SPHERE) instrument at the very large telescope (VLT). During our observations IFS was operating in the Y J band, while IRDIS was observing with the H broadband filter. The data were reduced with the dedicated SPHERE GTO pipeline, which is custom designed for this instrument. On the reduced images, we then applied the post-processing procedures that are specifically prepared to subtract the speckle noise. Results. The companion is clearly detected in both IRDIS and IFS datasets. We obtained photometry in three different spectral bands. The comparison with template spectra allowed us to derive a spectral type of T2–T3 for the companion. Using both evolutionary and atmospheric models we inferred the main physical parameters of the companion obtaining a mass of 32 ± 14 M Jup , T eff = 1100 ± 200 K, and log g = 4.75 ± 0.41.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201832650
Abstract: We report the discovery of a bright, brown dwarf companion to the star HIP 64892, imaged with VLT/SPHERE during the SHINE exoplanet survey. The host is a B9.5V member of the Lower-Centaurus-Crux subgroup of the Scorpius Centaurus OB association. The measured angular separation of the companion (1.2705 ± 0.0023 ” ) corresponds to a projected distance of 159 ± 12 AU. We observed the target with the dual-band imaging and long-slit spectroscopy modes of the IRDIS imager to obtain its spectral energy distribution (SED) and astrometry. In addition, we reprocessed archival NACO L -band data, from which we also recover the companion. Its SED is consistent with a young ( Myr), low surface gravity object with a spectral type of M9 γ ± 1. From comparison with the BT-Settl atmospheric models we estimate an effective temperature of T eff = 2600 ± 100 K, and comparison of the companion photometry to the COND evolutionary models yields a mass of ~29−37 M J at the estimated age of 16 −7 +15 Myr for the system. The star HIP 64892 is a rare ex le of an extreme-mass ratio system ( q ~ 0.01) and will be useful for testing models relating to the formation and evolution of such low-mass objects.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201935031
Abstract: Context. The 51 Eridani system harbors a complex architecture with its primary star forming a hierarchical system with the binary GJ 3305AB at a projected separation of 2000 au, a giant planet orbiting the primary star at 13 au, and a low-mass debris disk around the primary star with possible cold and warm components inferred from the spectral energy distribution. Aims. We aim to better constrain the orbital parameters of the known giant planet. Methods. We monitored the system over three years from 2015 to 2018 with the Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet REsearch (SPHERE) instrument at the Very Large Telescope (VLT). Results. We measure an orbital motion for the planet of ~130 mas with a slightly decreasing separation (~10 mas) and find a hint of curvature. This potential curvature is further supported at 3 σ significance when including literature Gemini Planet Imager (GPI) astrometry corrected for calibration systematics. Fits of the SPHERE and GPI data using three complementary approaches provide broadly similar results. The data suggest an orbital period of 32 −9 +17 yr (i.e., 12 −2 +4 au in semi-major axis), an inclination of 133 −7 +14 deg, an eccentricity of 0.45 −0.15 +0.10 , and an argument of periastron passage of 87 −30 +34 deg [mod 180°]. The time at periastron passage and the longitude of node exhibit bimodal distributions because we do not yet detect whether the planet is accelerating or decelerating along its orbit. Given the inclinations of the orbit and of the stellar rotation axis (134–144°), we infer alignment or misalignment within 18° for the star–planet spin-orbit. Further astrometric monitoring in the next 3–4 yr is required to confirm at a higher significance the curvature in the motion of the planet, determine if the planet is accelerating or decelerating on its orbit, and further constrain its orbital parameters and the star–planet spin-orbit.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 30-05-2013
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201935135
Abstract: Context. Planetary systems hold the imprint of the formation and of the evolution of planets especially at young ages, and in particular at the stage when the gas has dissipated leaving mostly secondary dust grains. The dynamical perturbation of planets in the dust distribution can be revealed with high-contrast imaging in a variety of structures. Aims. SPHERE, the high-contrast imaging device installed at the VLT, was designed to search for young giant planets in long period, but is also able to resolve fine details of planetary systems at the scale of astronomical units in the scattered-light regime. As a young and nearby star, NZ Lup was observed in the course of the SPHERE survey. A debris disk had been formerly identified with HST/NICMOS. Methods. We observed this system in the near-infrared with the camera in narrow and broad band filters and with the integral field spectrograph. High contrasts are achieved by the mean of pupil tracking combined with angular differential imaging algorithms. Results. The high angular resolution provided by SPHERE allows us to reveal a new feature in the disk which is interpreted as a superimposition of two belts of planetesimals located at stellocentric distances of ~85 and ~115 au, and with a mutual inclination of about 5°. Despite the very high inclination of the disk with respect to the line of sight, we conclude that the presence of a gap, that is, a void in the dust distribution between the belts, is likely. Conclusions. We discuss the implication of the existence of two belts and their relative inclination with respect to the presence of planets.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 25-11-2019
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201936764
Abstract: Context. PDS 70 is a young (5.4 Myr), nearby (~113 pc) star hosting a known transition disk with a large gap. Recent observations with SPHERE and NACO in the near-infrared (NIR) allowed us to detect a planetary mass companion, PDS 70 b, within the disk cavity. Moreover, observations in H α with MagAO and MUSE revealed emission associated to PDS 70 b and to another new companion candidate, PDS 70 c, at a larger separation from the star. PDS 70 is the only multiple planetary system at its formation stage detected so far through direct imaging. Aims. Our aim is to confirm the discovery of the second planet PDS 70 c using SPHERE at VLT, to further characterize its physical properties, and search for additional point sources in this young planetary system. Methods. We re-analyzed archival SPHERE NIR observations and obtained new data in Y, J, H and K spectral bands for a total of four different epochs. The data were reduced using the data reduction and handling pipeline and the SPHERE data center. We then applied custom routines (e.g., ANDROMEDA and PACO) to subtract the starlight. Results. We re-detect both PDS 70 b and c and confirm that PDS 70 c is gravitationally bound to the star. We estimate this second planet to be less massive than 5 M Jup and with a T eff around 900 K. Also, it has a low gravity with log g between 3.0 and 3.5 dex. In addition, a third object has been identified at short separation (~0.12′′) from the star and gravitationally bound to the star. Its spectrum is however very blue, meaning that we are probably seeing stellar light reflected by dust and our analysis seems to demonstrate that it is a feature of the inner disk. We cannot however completely exclude the possibility that it is a planetary mass object enshrouded by a dust envelope. In this latter case, its mass should be of the order of a few tens of M ⊕ . Moreover, we propose a possible structure for the planetary system based on our data, and find that this structure cannot be stable on a long timescale.
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 30-06-2023
DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202346406
Abstract: While the s le of confirmed exoplanets continues to grow, the population of transiting exoplanets around early-type stars is still limited. These planets allow us to investigate the planet properties and formation pathways over a wide range of stellar masses and study the impact of high irradiation on hot Jupiters orbiting such stars. We report the discovery of TOI-615b, TOI-622b, and TOI-2641b, three Saturn-mass planets transiting main sequence, F-type stars. The planets were identified by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and confirmed with complementary ground-based and radial velocity observations. TOI-615b is a highly irradiated (~1277 F ⊕ ) and bloated Saturn-mass planet (1.69 −0.06 +0.05 R Jup and 0.43 −0.08 +0.09 M Jup ) in a 4.66 day orbit transiting a 6850 K star. TOI-622b has a radius of 0.82 −0.03 +0.03 R Jup and a mass of 0.30 −0.08 +0.07 M Jup in a 6.40 day orbit. Despite its high insolation flux (~600 F ⊕ ), TOI-622b does not show any evidence of radius inflation. TOI-2641b is a 0.39 −0.04 +0.02 M Jup planet in a 4.88 day orbit with a grazing transit (b = 1.04 −0.06 +0.05 ) that results in a poorly constrained radius of 1.61 −0.64 +0.46 R Jup . Additionally, TOI-615b is considered attractive for atmospheric studies via transmission spectroscopy with ground-based spectrographs and JWST. Future atmospheric and spin-orbit alignment observations are essential since they can provide information on the atmospheric composition, formation, and migration of exoplanets across various stellar types.
Location: United States of America
Location: France
No related grants have been discovered for Janis Hagelberg.