Planetary Systems within Elliptical Binary Stars?

In summary, the article in Nature discusses the discovery of two circumbinary planets. The authors suggest that, assuming most stars have planetary systems and that binary stars are often elliptical, many binary star systems may not have planets due to tidal forces. However, the article focuses on planets that orbit well beyond the orbits of close binary stars, and mentions a stable configuration in which planets orbit one of the stars closely while the other star acts as a perturbation. The stability of these systems depends on the mass and orbital details of the stars.
  • #1
MrMojo1
1
0
I read this article in Nature (http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature10768.html) as it describes two circumbinary planets. If it is assumed that most stars have a planet orbiting it and most Binary Star systems are elliptical, then wouldn't the majority of Binary Stars system not have planets due to tidal forces of both stars? I am assuming the orbital path of the stars to be intersecting in a figure "eight" pattern (e.g. the last animation of barycentric coordinates on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barycentric_coordinates_(astronomy)).

Thanks in advance.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
I would expect that any planets would have to be well outside the orbital radius of the two binary stars or they would become unstable.
 
  • #3
Drakkith said:
I would expect that any planets would have to be well outside the orbital radius of the two binary stars or they would become unstable.
Well outside or well inside. The cited article is about planets orbiting well beyond the orbits of a pair of stars that orbit one another closely (close binaries). Another stable configuration is a pair of stars that orbit one another by some distance, with planets orbiting closely to one of the stars. In this configuration the other star just acts as a perturbation on the planetary orbits.
 
  • #4
True, I guess it depends on the mass of the stars and the details of their orbits.
 
  • #5


I find this article and the concept of circumbinary planets within elliptical binary stars to be very intriguing. While it is true that the tidal forces of both stars in a binary system can make it challenging for planets to form and survive, this study has shown that it is not impossible. The two circumbinary planets in this system have managed to maintain stable orbits despite the gravitational interactions of the two stars.

It is important to note that not all binary star systems will have the same orbital paths as the one described in the article. While some may have intersecting orbits in a figure-eight pattern, others may have more circular orbits or even be separated by a significant distance. This means that the effects of tidal forces on potential planets may vary greatly among different binary systems.

Furthermore, it is also possible that the formation of planets in binary systems may be influenced by other factors such as the initial conditions of the protoplanetary disk or the presence of other nearby stars. Therefore, it is difficult to make a blanket statement about the likelihood of planets in binary systems based on their elliptical nature alone.

Overall, this study adds to our understanding of planetary formation and the potential for habitable worlds in binary systems. It also highlights the need for further research and exploration of these unique systems to fully understand the processes at play. Thank you for bringing this interesting topic to my attention.
 

1. What is a planetary system within an elliptical binary star?

A planetary system within an elliptical binary star refers to a system in which two stars orbit each other in an elliptical shape, while a planet or multiple planets orbit around one or both of the stars. This type of system is less common than a planetary system within a single star, but has been observed in some cases.

2. How do planets form in a planetary system within an elliptical binary star?

The exact process of planet formation in this type of system is not well understood. However, it is believed that planets may form from the disk of gas and dust surrounding the two stars, or they may form independently around one of the stars and be affected by the gravitational pull of the other star.

3. Are there any unique characteristics of planetary systems within elliptical binary stars?

Yes, there are some unique characteristics of these systems. For example, the orbit of the planets may be more erratic and affected by the changing gravitational pull of the two stars. Additionally, the habitable zone (the area where liquid water can exist on a planet's surface) may be narrower due to the varying distance and intensity of the stars' heat and light.

4. Can planets in a planetary system within an elliptical binary star support life?

It is possible for planets in this type of system to support life, but it may be more challenging. The varying orbit and potential for extreme temperature changes may make it difficult for life to develop or sustain itself. However, there is still much to be learned about the potential habitability of these systems.

5. How do scientists study planetary systems within elliptical binary stars?

Scientists study these systems through a variety of methods, including observing the stars' movements and analyzing changes in their light. They also use computer simulations and theoretical models to better understand the dynamics of these systems. Additionally, future missions and advancements in technology may provide more insights into these complex systems.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
976
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
14
Views
541
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
2
Replies
60
Views
9K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
4
Views
9K
Back
Top