Three-dimensional Structures of Extrasolar Planetary Systems

Dr Lee, Man Hoi   (Principal Investigator (PI))

Professor Lin Douglas N. C   (Co-Investigator)

Professor Quirrenbach Andreas   (Co-Investigator)

42

2015-11-01

933362

Three-dimensional Structures of Extrasolar Planetary Systems

Extrasolar Planets, Orbital Inclinations, Planetary System Dynamics, Planetary System Origins

Planetary Sciences

Physical Sciences (P)

17305015

General Research Fund (GRF)

2015

Completed

1 We will analyze the radial velocity data of two close binary star systems (HIP 36616 and 39 Cygni) to characterize the planet orbiting the primary star. The HIP 36616 system will be the most eccentric close binary with a planet, and the planet may be on a retrograde orbit, revolving in the opposite direction as the binary. 2 We will investigate the constraints on planet formation theory from the HIP 36616 system. In particular, we will study the dynamics of km-sized bodies called planetesimals in the context of this system and consider the differences in the dynamics and accretion of these bodies in prograde and retrograde orbits. 3 We will examine the general conditions under which the orbits of the planets in a multiple-planet system with a distant, inclined companion would precess together and remain nearly coplanar. 4 We will investigate whether the statistics of transit timing variations in the Kepler space telescope data is consistent with the small mutual inclinations inferred from all planet pairs in the Kepler data.